By Husna Munir
In a world where everything is just a tap away, convenience has never been so accessible. From remote work and online shopping to video calls and 24/7 news updates, the digital revolution has redefined how we live. But with every notification ping and screen refresh, a new question emerges: Is technology making our lives better, or is it silently exhausting us?
The term “Digital Fatigue” is becoming increasingly common — and real. It’s the mental and physical exhaustion caused by prolonged exposure to digital devices. Long Zoom meetings, endless scrolling, and constant notifications keep our minds in a loop of engagement, leaving little room to disconnect and breathe.
This constant connectivity blurs the lines between personal and professional life. Work-from-home culture, while flexible, often results in longer hours and fewer breaks. Social media, originally a tool for connection, now breeds comparison, anxiety, and the fear of missing out. Our brains are overstimulated, but ironically, under-rested.
Moreover, digital fatigue is not just psychological. Eye strain, headaches, poor posture, and sleep disorders are all byproducts of excessive screen time. Even our conversations have shifted — quick replies and emoji reactions have replaced real, thoughtful communication.
But it’s not all gloom. The same digital tools also bring immense value — access to education, global collaboration, instant entertainment, and information. The challenge is not the technology itself, but how we manage it.
Digital balance is the need of the hour. Scheduling screen-free time, setting app limits, taking real breaks, and embracing offline hobbies can go a long way. Companies too must realize that productivity doesn’t mean being online all the time.
In the end, technology should serve us — not the other way around. The goal is to stay connected, without being consumed.
Student of law , Punjab Univeristy Lahore
