Understanding the Impact of YouTube Shorts and the Need for Digital Detox.

Recently, short-form videos like YouTube Shorts have gained popularity, raising concerns about digital addiction. Experts warn that these short-form videos can have negative effects on our brains and accelerate aging. In light of these concerns, the need for digital detox has become more apparent.

 

Impact of Short Videos on the Brain

Research suggests that watching short videos, such as shorts, significantly reduces activity in the prefrontal cortex of our brains. The prefrontal cortex is a crucial area involved in memory, cognition, and emotion regulation. Therefore, becoming addicted to short-form videos can impair our ability to concentrate and control emotions and impulses.

 

As short-form videos like YouTube Shorts gain popularity, we must acknowledge the severity of digital addiction issues.

 

The Need for Digital Detox

To address these issues, digital detox or dopamine detox has gained attention recently. This involves temporarily suspending digital device usage and purifying the mind through rest or other activities. Studies indicate that conducting dopamine detox for about a month can restore the brain to its normal state. Activities like exercise, which involve challenging dopamine activities, are particularly recommended.

 

Applications to Aid Digital Detox

Various applications are gaining popularity to facilitate digital detox. For example, the "Forest" app plants virtual trees if you refrain from using smartphone apps for more than 30 minutes and switches your smartphone to silent mode. Moreover, it motivates users through reward systems such as trees dying when other apps are used.

 

Spaces for Disconnecting from Digital Devices

Spaces to help disconnect from digital devices are also being created. For instance, a book cafe has opened in Gangnam, where submission of mobile phones is required for entry. Here, a space is provided for concentration activities like reading or writing without digital distractions.

 

National Policies and Regulations

Some countries regulate short video apps. In China, there are restrictions on the usage time of TikTok for children under 14, and in some states in the United States, the use of TikTok is prohibited.

 

As short-form videos like YouTube Shorts gain popularity, we must acknowledge the severity of digital addiction issues. Practicing digital detox to give our brains a break is essential for our healthy living. It's necessary to adopt healthy digital habits together.