I am here today because of technology. I would have been dead a long time ago. I found people like you. I connected with other people going through what I was going through. Most of all, I have learned new coping tools. I was able to do this from bed and no charge. I play positive affirmations through my speakers. I am a totally different person than I was just a few months ago when I found your channel. I was in such a dark space. ❤
You obviously used technology purposefully and carefully. When I am disciplined, I can 6:08 curate my intake of social media to be things that help me grow, lift my spirits, or connect with others. But it's hard for me to not get distracted and waste tons of time!!
I appreciate you so much for just making these videos. Especially without an ulterior motive such as selling a book or course. You simply share your knowledge and experiences, free for everyone. Kudos!
This is a revelation! Comparing basic self care to bills you have to pay- and social media to frivolous spending-is incredibly helpful. This is the needed framing to build and maintain quality of life. I will definitely want to pass this along to my callers (I work for a crisis center).
I find it difficult not to play games or watch RUclips videos when I don't have anything going on. I don't really know how much this hurts me, but if I am just thinking about how miserable my life is, that doesn't seem to be good either. I know that these distractions aren't necessarily helping my problems, but they give me something to do that doesn't cost me more money to do.
I think many people in this comment section can relate. Life can be too much. So why not take it slowly? The cold turkey approach never worked for me, personally. I can't just unplug from everything and expect to handle everything life throws at me. Sending some virtual hugs to you.
I think it depends on the kinds of videos that you watch as well. Listening to informative content while I am doing tedious tasks motivates me and interviews with researchers in their field or people who know what they are talking about gives me insight I wouldn't otherwise have. That said, a local library or park is also a good free resource 😊 Maybe I really do need a life 😅
I feel this! RUclips and gaming are invaluable to me. I watch a lot of healing, news, and informative content, splurging on funny stuff when I desperately need to laugh. Gaming comes in spurts. Sometimes I want to play, sometimes I want to do something else. In the past when I was at my worst -- major depression and serious health problems I couldn't fix, gaming became an addiction. I swore that I would NEVER get addicted to gaming that heavily ever again, and so far I've been true to my word. However, my life situation is different than it was a decade ago when I was into MMOs and lootboxes. I think once you hit that rock bottom and see how bad an escape or an addiction is, if you choose to approach it again, you'll be more careful about letting it control you because you can look back at how it devastated so many parts of your life. There's not a problem if you are responsible and set good boundaries for yourself. Doing your chores before you sit down to have fun so the fun is a reward, monitoring how much time you watch by making a specific playlist and only watching what's on it, setting an alarm for when to cut off the vidya and get ready for bed. It also feels really nice to do this in a parenting-the-inner-child way. My parents screamed at me to get off the games or computer RIGHT THEN RIGHT THAT SECOND. Now I can tell myself kindly, without any screaming, that it's time to go to bed. If I slip up, I don't scream at myself. It happens. Sometimes you're really engrossed in something! Sometimes this is the only escape you have from ruminating and wasting all that mental energy on stuff you can't do much about.
Dr Scott: If it's 7 or 8 hours, there is no way you can actually do what you need to do to actually enjoy your life. Me, with a screen time of 10 hours, the most depressed I have ever felt, my life in shambles, my mental health hanging by a thread, and no sense of self-worth whatsoever: yeah, that tracks. Jokes aside, just yesterday, I had the sudden epiphany that I am not depressed AND addicted to my phone (like two separete things), but just depressed and using my phone as self medication. Why it took me so long to realize that? No idea, but I'm glad I finally did. Maybe is the change of perspective that I need to push myself forward. Also, thinking of allocating time as a budget is a new way of seeing screentime that I had not thought of, too. I'll give it a try. Thank you for the information Dr, it's keeping me afloat.
@littlesometin To me is automatic now. It started very gradually, numbing myself little by little every time those feelings appeared, and when I was feeling fine I didn't reach for the phone as much. Then the feelings just happened more frequently and so did the excessive screen time. Now I feel the same all the time so I'm used to just reach for my phone all the time as well. I don't even think about it, I just do it. I realized I'm perpetually numbing myself 24/7.
Your unabashed openness and honesty is a great strength in connecting with the people who need you. My opinion after 50+ years in the same game. You are wise beyond your years and the curse of your many experiences has paradoxically become the source of your strength. This type of commitment comes with its own risks but you have grown yourself wonderfully. All this to reach around the world and make a difference to so many, but be very careful not to be dragged into celebrity. Well done. Cheers from NZ DR. JEFF
I'm 75, retired, and a widower (for 5 yrs.). I have all the time in the world and don't want to do anything. I could give up my Y-T and my TV but then I would just sit here all day long doing nothing. When my wife died my Dr. (now retired) suggested I see a therapist. Thinking he saw something in me that I didn't, I agreed. I went four time then Covid hit. I spilled my guts out and didn't hold anything back. I had a good time but didn't feel any different when it was over. I could go on and on so let's just say that's where I am today.
@@Rick40years The rest of my story is that my new Dr. suggested I see the three experts at the hospital to which I agreed and talked to one of them after my exam. She said they would contact me later that day or the next to set up a meeting. They never did and thanks to my brain fog, I lost their number. Two weeks later I got their call. I told them that I didn't need them. I didn't tell them it was because of a lack of confidence. The next time I saw my Dr., he talked me into giving it another try and, you guessed it, nothing happened. It's been a month or so since that happened and here, I sit. I was hoping that Dr Scott would suggest something but again, nothing. Well, I still have my TV and my Y-T. Oh well.
I wouldn’t be here today if a certain video game didn’t distract me from attempting on my planned date. If it wasn’t frustrating for me and if the character didn’t make me change my mind I would not be here. Thanks technology for making me aware I can escape the desires. ❤
I cant sleep so I wake up at 2 or 3 in the night and start answering comments on RUclips and sit the rest of the day in increased and deeper depression. My dog saves my sanity since I do go out with to much rather than to little, at home I cant just do the dishes and clean up since I dont have the strength.
Biggest thing for me was stopping scrolling and stopping watching short form videos (TikTok and YT shorts). For me, making sure I've got everything done and sitting down to play a game or watching a show I enjoy is self-care. Scrolling instagram is self-sabotage.
I'm a quality-over-quantity guy, so that stuff repulses me. I only had brief encounters with Shorts, all shoved on me, and I think I never even loaded the TikTok website.
From what I understand, you're already doing exactly what the author says here. Hou do it AFTER meeting all your other needs, not taking away time from essential self-care, aka keeping your life together. Your piramyd of needs is not on it's head, so it's all good
I have been feeling so overwhelmed and stressed and that I fear I am going to have a heart attack or a stroke and so I sat down with my iPad on RUclips in order to take a mental break and you’re video popped up it was exactly what I needed to hear. I have been trying to escape reality through social media for over six years when my boyfriend was dying from cancer and I couldn’t handle it so I escaped through RUclips and my ability to handle stress has become so depleted and I was not able to escape my depression for five years I know the stress I feel now is because I can’t seem to find time for things are used to love doing like crafts genealogy, walking my dog etc. but yet I spend hours on the iPad thank you for your video I am going to make a conscious effort to limit my online time.
You're the first professional who really gets how a lot of us feel. Please would you consider making a video about how to cope with the anger and grief of having to be high maintenance when it comes to self-care? And the frustration of not being where we want to be in life because of the giant millstones around our neck that are our mental illnesses. At this point in my life I don't see the point in trying to get better because I'm so far behind I'll never get to where I want to be and my small achievements are nothing compared to anyone else's.
I have seen him address this very thing in some other videos. I'm sorry that I don't remember which. But in essence he says "it's really not fair that we have this extra disability to have to manage. But we do...." I don't remember the exact wording, but I remember that this was a GIANT moment of revelation for me; something that no other therapist had ever recognized or voiced. Before starting this process of beginning to accept my condition, the hand I've been dealt with managing severe depression, I started every day being dismayed all over again that this mental pressure is on me again, another day. And I spent more effort trying to escape that reality than trying to manage it (because nothing ever seemed to make it better). And all of this while regular therapists seemed to imply that putting the right stuff together would make it all heal and disappear. This doctor acknowledging that it MAY not feel better the days you're managing the condition. Just have to do it anyway. It may be a lifelong condition to manage, or at least a years-long condition to manage. Or months-long. Or episodic. Whatever. The key being that we just have to manage it. It's like needing stuff for any other disability. It sucks, but what are you going to do? Do your best to have the best life possible, managing within whatever parameters we're dealt with day by day. And Dr. Eilers does very much acknowledge that it sucks, a lot. I wish I remember which videos have this message. He probably does discuss HOW to cope with the grief of acknowledging it.
@@user-zk5rt3gb3e Thank you for your considerate and thoughtful response. Yes, I like Dr Scott's analogy that he uses in another video where he says people with chronic illnesses are like a certain sports car that is high maintenance and that it sucks. I accept (on good days) that I have to manage it, and that it sucks (which it absolutely does). I'm just so ambitious and feel that if I didn't have all these mental health conditions I'd be so much better off with my career and I get so angry that I've lost YEARS to these conditions. I'm a relatively new subscriber so am still working my way through his videos and I may come across this in other videos, but I thought I'd throw it out there just in case. I'm glad that you have also been helped by Dr Scott. He really does get it like no other therapist I've had and my number is well into double figures at this point.
I recently had that conversation with myself about whether it was worth trying to get better, because I am already 57 years old and retired. But yes, for me I do need to try to get better because where I am at now is not sustainable. I am not concerned about the size of my achievements or getting to where I want to be. I am actually not sure where I want to be, other than that I know I want to be better.
Thank you for this! I feel technology has always been a problem for some people as long as it’s been around Hell, when video games first came into the household they were as addicting as social media is today
I know this. I’m struggling with this escape from my life. Trying to reengage with my world. Being present in reality is so hard to maintain. I’ve retreated , checked out mentally and physically for years. Thanks for your focused direction.
Scott, this is SO timely and.SO important!!! I recently "retired" to watch my 1 yr old grandson full-time and I still work part-time on weekends. So my retirement is not exactly full of free time 😂😂. It's taken me almost a year to figure out how to budget time.for my essential mental health needs. I have to get to bed by10pm at the latest as my son drops the baby off at 5am. I have to schedule an outdoor walk every morning no matter te weather bc I need fresh air and movement and daylight to keep my mood.from spiraling. I spend 15 min most days doing wt training and 15 min yoga stretch every night. I also teach fitness class or go to the gym 5-6 times a.week. I intentionally reach out to one friend or family member each day. When all of these are done regularly, I feel pretty good!❤ But I have very little time.left for tv, phone scrolling or mindless entertainment..
You are incredible & you are a GODSEND. Describing me and my bf to a T with this. This video will for sure ruffle some feathers, because ppl don't like their coping mechanisms and addictions being challenged even mildly and extremely politely. But for me, this was invaluable. I'm also going to buy your book just because I love you so much for what you do, can relate to you extremely closely, and want to support you ❤
I glean from his video that he's saying prioritize your activity from bottom tier - up. (Instead of most enjoyable top tier - down). In other words, prioritize doing the things that don't feel like they're as much fun. Do the things that *don't* provide the fun of distractioin. Instead: do the things you least want to do (that you know are *necessary* for you to not spiral downward, or that are *necessary* for anything to continue working in your life). He's acknowledging in this video that it is not fun. It's awful that we need to prioritize this way, but it is a fact of life, especially if you have a chronic condition that needs more care (mental or physical). But really everybody has to prioritize bottom-up if they want to accomplish anything in life.
WOW!! Thank you, brother! Your insights are so genius level. When I listen to your videos, I feel like you’re literally reading my mind. I beg you, please don’t ever stop sharing your expertise. You are saving lives, and helping thousands and thousands of people. We all love you, and owe you so very much! Thank you for all yo do. We trust you! ❤
At 66, I’ve been in and out (mostly IN) of various forms of therapy for over 30 of those. I’ve RaReLy heard you, Dr.Eilers, say anything that didn’t ring SO true that I’m nodding and “YES”sing through your vids. Thank you for the reinforcement! Now I’ve got to turn off this device!👊🏼💥✌🏽👊🏼Happy Holidays to you & fam. I’ll be back 😉
Hi doc! Thank you for making these videos. I feel so validated by your videos than by my actual therapist. Could you please make a video on how to cope with family members who are cold, dismissive and neglectful? I feel very depressed and lonely and my family is making it worse. I'm dependent on them so I could not leave them yet.
Not doc, but 1) always remember it is them no matter how much they want you to believe it's you, 2) make as many outside connections as you can so that 3) you can get out as early as possible. Generic advice, I know - but I had a friend who was in that position and eventually got out. It takes a huge toll though, not gonna lie, and I'm so sorry for what you are going through. Stay strong! (Sorry if you didn't need anyone else butting in)
I really think ignorance is bliss, i remember growing up in the 90s and i'm not saying everything was perfect, nothing ever is but there were no major distractions, people walked head up and talked and i just can't believe how far we have fallen, i get hooked in as well and it is because i don't want to face my reality. My avoidance and mental ill health make me an easy mark in todays app and addiction driven life and i can't decide what's worse, the silence and misery or the distraction and misery
This showed up at precisely the right time. Thank you! Will be searching for a video I hope you've done, or will consider -- irrational anger/resentment when "doing the right thing" as far as self-care, mental health, etc., actually works? So childlike, but going to bed on time, etc. and feeling good the next day pisses me off!!! Like I should know better.
I knew from day one that the computer was evil. I refused to get anything, even a cell phone. My husband and sister were hounding me to get online. I finally caved. My husband is now addicted to internet porn, had an affair with a woman he met online resulting in a child and my sister disowned me after I posted a photo she thought was inappropriate. She has not seen or spoken to me in 22 years. That’s my story and I stand by it. Never let ANYONE convince you to go against your gut instinct.
True. Additionally, I have realized through time that passive consumption of social media is better for my mental health than regular posting on Facebook, or wherever. Regular posting makes havoc inside my mind: I feel addicted, with constant need to often check my socials for likes, comments, and mindless scrolling. Of course, with much less energy for achieving anything important that day. It's way better when I don't post or even like regularly. When I feel i had enough, I deactivate my account for 24h or 48h, which restarts my mind perfectly, better than simply not logging in.
Personal responsibilty is important, but the odds of having enough time or energy in this modern life to fullly take care of ourselves ate stacked against us well.
The physical activity thing is really hard for me right now because its so damned cold out, and i really thrive walking or jogging outside. I can go to the mall or Walmart or something, but its not the same. Lifting i can do a couple days a week, but they dont make me feel the same. I never thought I'd miss warm weather.
Thanks for pointing this out. I mean we all kind of now that technology addiction is huge, yet so many of us are relativistic when it comes to this and dismiss the harsh truths still. Like 'It's okay to have leasure time on the phone' while ignoring the actual screen time. Or 'I quit social media like facebook and Instagram' while the attention only shifted towards RUclips and reddit. With tech I feel like it's with food. It's necessary and also brings a lot of benefits and fun with it. But there's the risk of consuming too much of it - especially the stuff with low nutritional value.
I'm a relatively low maintenance person, I just need a fixed sleep routine, my prescription meds, and at least one big home cooked meal (which doesn't even have to be complicated, I just feel better when I cook and eat for myself) per day, and then all the tedious chores like dishes and stuff. I get enough interaction with my partner, work, and online friends to feel satisfied socially.
Thank you! I needed this video so much! I turned off all notifications on my phone and browser this morning in an effort to reduce distractions, but this makes me want to take things much further than that. I certainly need to prioritize my health and well-being rather than spending so much time on my phone. You have given me a lot to think about.
See this is the issue ive faced for a while. I know my phone use is terrible. I hate my phone in fact. But sometimes the use is so compulsive. Sometimes i don't know what to do but use my phone. And sometimes i dont know why i need to but i do and it feels out of my control
How is leisure time not a basic need? Especially when feeling burned out from doing things that are clichée-helping with the life basics but are often making things even worse when dealing with them, or less extremely, just not yield any reward, not even mid-term. I used to be a big gamer in my youth, but gradually, the things that relate to addiction optimization put me off. I was missing the healthy element. Now I would have to really push myself hard to even play a game. It would be like hard work. Because I prefer to spend my relief time watching informative and/or morally uplifting things on RUclips, and also a bit of checking what is going on in world affairs. I can still appreciate games that help with real life affairs. Nature designed games as training, as simulated real life challenges. I draw meaning from that.
The best thing I did for myself is get off social media. I have RUclips only. When I'm depressed, which is ALL THE TIME YAAY CHRONIC MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS! social media feeds that mental monster, and I start to feel so much worse. I know when I start hiding feeds or blocking content left and right that it's time for me to go. I have learned my limit. The people who truly care about me know how to reach me and I know how to reach them. You learn who your friends are real fast when you don't make yourself easy to reach. My hobbies are gaming and writing and reading. I don't have the energy to do much else until I get my physical health sorted, which has been a struggle since I hit rock bottom nearly four years ago after my divorce. Being kind to yourself really is a wonderful way to be. Sometimes it's hard, but caring for yourself can be fun, and it is certainly rewarding. Thank you, Dr. Scott.
Thank you, Dr. Eilers. Like many others have mentioned, I truly appreciate how you offer genuine advice without trying to push courses or books (even though I know you’ve written one). Your openness and authenticity really stand out. I hope you continue to stay this way, even though it might not be the most profitable path.
Thanks Doc Scott. I took your advice about finding something about winter to enjoy. I did that and made a couple of "Frosty's" of Snow. I'm 60y and I thought about the other kids out building snowmen, and then that at most, if at all, more likely they were in the house, doing it on their media/gaming devices. Sad, that.
This is great information. I find myself in front of TV a lot. I try to have certain days for certain things like getting all the bills taken care of. I should do what you do and pay attention to everything i need to do in the one day but every day. I wouldn't have a lot of time for TV that I have now.
Like everything else technology has its downside. It lets me connect with Dr.Scott & others like me & gives my brain something to do on days when I can’t get out of bed. But there are days when I feel like I was happier b4 cell phones & tech stuff. Now I’m too connected too informed & too overwhelmed with it all. I struggle to balance myself to avoid the tech overload.
I used to spend such a lot of time on Facebook. I was in lots of groups and constantly jumping from one to another. As a result l wasted hours each day. I am 68 and l live alone so l am not neglecting anyone else. My one regret is l could have given more of that time to my dog. She wasn't neglected in a bad way but l spent too much time on social media. It was difficult coming off Facebook. It meant finding ways to fill my time. I am still trying to do this more. I now use my phone to take photos, to count my steps, doing Bible study. I also play games but limit how long as my eyes get tierd l also listen to the radio or music on RUclips. I can do that without looking at a screen.
I agree with most of the things he is saying but its also not a one size fits all plan. To me, that life just sounds like surviving, instead of living. I do agree that social media and technology has done more harm for me and a lot of people than good. Its helps that i found him and Dr. K through technology, but also i probably would have not needed to if it weren't for the advancements in social media and other things.
I'm completely addicted to video games. And being disabled, I got nothin' but time for them. They are my default activity. I have no family, no relationship, no job, and nothing better to do. I know damned well that there's millions of more meaningful and worthwhile things I could do with my time. Things that might actually get me out of this hellhole of a meaningless, purposeless, worthless existence and let me finally, at the age of 51, become a grownup. Things that stand a chance of actually improving my life. But I just play games all the time. I would say easily 2/3 of my waking hours go to gaming. And when I try to imagine leaving the games behind to get more important things done, I feel a cold breeze blow across my soul, as if leaving the clammy comfort of gaming would be akin to walking naked through a snowstorm. And I know this addiction is the main thing by far keeping me where I am. And where I am is not good. But I don't feel like I have the power to change it. Anyhow, thanks for the video, Doctor Scott!
My pc/phone games merely substitute for the physical things; I have played board games, often by myself, since I was a child in the 70s. Technology gives me a wider variety, quicker "results," and I still play by myself. This is what a lot of people don't get about my games and me...I did it before the technology existed. That said, I try to stay off Facebook, otherwise I end up scrolling, and scrolling. I don't do the other social media apps. I do also tend to scroll and scroll through my news app. Now that I have retired, I don't do email. I do RUclips, but for me RUclips is mostly like the educational channel on TV: Oooh, look at all the cool and interesting things to learn, which I can then apply to my coping skills, mental health, and physical reality (such as crafts). Also, I have recently started to use audiobooks, although I need to figure out the most efficient way to do that. So yes, I definitely have thought about cutting back on my screentime.
You could do the exact same argumentation with work. It steals your time, it brings psychological trouble and reduces the joy of your non-working hours. Family and sports and playtime makes you happy, not work.
As a 3-year old, I resent that comment. 😊😅😂 seriously this is an invaluable video. I am going to share it with my teen son when he is in a receptive mood.
Did you get into physical exercise for the purpose of improving mental health? I get a good workout at work but looking into some easy options for helping with my anxiety, adhd, and depression. Some starter goals, guidelines, or even ideas would be great to learn about from your perspective.
I really appreciate your efforts! Just a quick off-topic question: My OKX wallet holds some USDT, and I have the seed phrase. (alarm fetch churn bridge exercise tape speak race clerk couch crater letter). How can I transfer them to Binance?
HELP PLEASE What do you do when your work is on Facebook, instagram, etc. I'm with Nutrimetics Australia and New Zealand, plus Scentsy Australia and Zealand. I have no choice, even though it frustrates me every day, as im soooo sick of Facebook, etc, now because I'm on it so much, as im an independent consultant in both businesses.. I need income. How do I literally make time for me, plus do my business? Much love from Tasmania Australia 🇦🇺
I have always wondered WHY the very first time I played electronic Monopoly, later Freecell, I was "hooked." As like drugs. Willing to spend every single free moment playing them. Not interested in any other game. No care if I win or lose. Just play. Even sometimes without the device. Geez. Is there a biological hook involved?
My (unpopular) opinion is that school shootings would go down dramatically within a year or two of eliminating shooting games. Ft. Irwin used them long before they were introduced to the public because they reduced the hesitation, the moral barrier to shooting a human being.
Um, sorry to be this kind of guy, but I totally hate your video and I think you are deadly wrong about many things. First of all, I believe in individualism and I think every person is unique and you seem to usd lots ideas "this is how it works for EVERYONE, no exceptions." 1) "Technology is escapism!" - everything might be escapism. Could be videogames, could be going to a bar to drink with friends, could you going to the gym. 2) "Technology is bad for you mental health." - what if it actually helps me with my mental health? What if it helps me relax after a stressfull day in a job? What if is not for my mental health to be forced to be "social", to be in a open-space office all day and so on? I am an autistic person and it drains my energy. 3) "Exactly 2 hours is good, more is bad." - this is a very random number. If it works for you, OK... how much is ok and healthy is kinda subjective. What if I have a better time-management than you and can push three hours into gaming? What if I don't have kids? Actually, you can do both... you can spent with your kids gaming a bit :) Saying more will damange my mental health - come on, you don't know me. You don't know my personal feelings. 4) Also, I really doubt there are people who do more gaming than 2 hours... Perhaps teenagers who have anything to do and all they basic things are done by their mums, so they can play Fortnite all day... but aside of that, I doubt it's a common thing and you address a group of people that is probably rare. And people in this group typically know they might have a problem if they stay all night playing games. 5) Basically you're saying "too much technology is bad" which known by everybody, so you're not saying anything new. In your thumbnail you said "it's the opposite" so I was hoping to hear something new and I feel a lil disapponted to be honest :) It's just the same as always.
I am here today because of technology. I would have been dead a long time ago. I found people like you. I connected with other people going through what I was going through. Most of all, I have learned new coping tools. I was able to do this from bed and no charge. I play positive affirmations through my speakers. I am a totally different person than I was just a few months ago when I found your channel. I was in such a dark space. ❤
I'm being totally serious- it's like he's me but a different career.
Same for me
You obviously used technology purposefully and carefully. When I am disciplined, I can 6:08 curate my intake of social media to be things that help me grow, lift my spirits, or connect with others. But it's hard for me to not get distracted and waste tons of time!!
I appreciate you so much for just making these videos. Especially without an ulterior motive such as selling a book or course. You simply share your knowledge and experiences, free for everyone. Kudos!
Well…I am selling a book. However the fact that you aren’t aware of it suggests I am not doing a very good job 😂
@@DrScottEilers 😂👍
Didn't you know? Video descriptions don't exist. They're a myth. 😉
It IS very hard to stop distraction.
This is a revelation! Comparing basic self care to bills you have to pay- and social media to frivolous spending-is incredibly helpful. This is the needed framing to build and maintain quality of life. I will definitely want to pass this along to my callers (I work for a crisis center).
I find it difficult not to play games or watch RUclips videos when I don't have anything going on. I don't really know how much this hurts me, but if I am just thinking about how miserable my life is, that doesn't seem to be good either. I know that these distractions aren't necessarily helping my problems, but they give me something to do that doesn't cost me more money to do.
I think many people in this comment section can relate. Life can be too much. So why not take it slowly? The cold turkey approach never worked for me, personally. I can't just unplug from everything and expect to handle everything life throws at me. Sending some virtual hugs to you.
I think it depends on the kinds of videos that you watch as well. Listening to informative content while I am doing tedious tasks motivates me and interviews with researchers in their field or people who know what they are talking about gives me insight I wouldn't otherwise have.
That said, a local library or park is also a good free resource 😊
Maybe I really do need a life 😅
I feel this! RUclips and gaming are invaluable to me. I watch a lot of healing, news, and informative content, splurging on funny stuff when I desperately need to laugh. Gaming comes in spurts. Sometimes I want to play, sometimes I want to do something else. In the past when I was at my worst -- major depression and serious health problems I couldn't fix, gaming became an addiction. I swore that I would NEVER get addicted to gaming that heavily ever again, and so far I've been true to my word. However, my life situation is different than it was a decade ago when I was into MMOs and lootboxes. I think once you hit that rock bottom and see how bad an escape or an addiction is, if you choose to approach it again, you'll be more careful about letting it control you because you can look back at how it devastated so many parts of your life.
There's not a problem if you are responsible and set good boundaries for yourself. Doing your chores before you sit down to have fun so the fun is a reward, monitoring how much time you watch by making a specific playlist and only watching what's on it, setting an alarm for when to cut off the vidya and get ready for bed. It also feels really nice to do this in a parenting-the-inner-child way. My parents screamed at me to get off the games or computer RIGHT THEN RIGHT THAT SECOND. Now I can tell myself kindly, without any screaming, that it's time to go to bed. If I slip up, I don't scream at myself. It happens. Sometimes you're really engrossed in something! Sometimes this is the only escape you have from ruminating and wasting all that mental energy on stuff you can't do much about.
@@spacegirl226 Lovely, well-written, and insightful response/comment! Thank you.
Dr Scott: If it's 7 or 8 hours, there is no way you can actually do what you need to do to actually enjoy your life.
Me, with a screen time of 10 hours, the most depressed I have ever felt, my life in shambles, my mental health hanging by a thread, and no sense of self-worth whatsoever: yeah, that tracks.
Jokes aside, just yesterday, I had the sudden epiphany that I am not depressed AND addicted to my phone (like two separete things), but just depressed and using my phone as self medication. Why it took me so long to realize that? No idea, but I'm glad I finally did. Maybe is the change of perspective that I need to push myself forward. Also, thinking of allocating time as a budget is a new way of seeing screentime that I had not thought of, too. I'll give it a try.
Thank you for the information Dr, it's keeping me afloat.
I noticed the same about myself. First the feeling of lack of energy, focus and will appears, and then I reach for the phone.
@littlesometin To me is automatic now. It started very gradually, numbing myself little by little every time those feelings appeared, and when I was feeling fine I didn't reach for the phone as much. Then the feelings just happened more frequently and so did the excessive screen time. Now I feel the same all the time so I'm used to just reach for my phone all the time as well. I don't even think about it, I just do it. I realized I'm perpetually numbing myself 24/7.
Dr. Eilers, with so much gratitude for your authentic videos which are a Blessing in this struggle called life. 🍃❤️🍃🙏🕊️🌎✨
Your unabashed openness and honesty is a great strength in connecting with the people who need you.
My opinion after 50+ years in the same game. You are wise beyond your years and the curse of your many experiences has paradoxically become the source of your strength. This type of commitment comes with its own risks but you have grown yourself wonderfully. All this to reach around the world and make a difference to so many, but be very careful not to be dragged into celebrity.
Well done.
Cheers from NZ
DR. JEFF
The whole Maslow's hierarchy/ pyramid of needs being flipped upside down gave me a lot to think about. Thank you!!
Yes! Me, too.
I'm 75, retired, and a widower (for 5 yrs.). I have all the time in the world and don't want to do anything. I could give up my Y-T and my TV but then I would just sit here all day long doing nothing. When my wife died my Dr. (now retired) suggested I see a therapist. Thinking he saw something in me that I didn't, I agreed. I went four time then Covid hit. I spilled my guts out and didn't hold anything back. I had a good time but didn't feel any different when it was over. I could go on and on so let's just say that's where I am today.
You are not alone. Retired and have a difficult time going to the mailbox. I used to be over the top adventurous. What happened?
@@Rick40years The rest of my story is that my new Dr. suggested I see the three experts at the hospital to which I agreed and talked to one of them after my exam. She said they would contact me later that day or the next to set up a meeting. They never did and thanks to my brain fog, I lost their number. Two weeks later I got their call. I told them that I didn't need them. I didn't tell them it was because of a lack of confidence. The next time I saw my Dr., he talked me into giving it another try and, you guessed it, nothing happened. It's been a month or so since that happened and here, I sit. I was hoping that Dr Scott would suggest something but again, nothing. Well, I still have my TV and my Y-T. Oh well.
I wouldn’t be here today if a certain video game didn’t distract me from attempting on my planned date. If it wasn’t frustrating for me and if the character didn’t make me change my mind I would not be here. Thanks technology for making me aware I can escape the desires. ❤
I cant sleep so I wake up at 2 or 3 in the night and start answering comments on RUclips and sit the rest of the day in increased and deeper depression. My dog saves my sanity since I do go out with to much rather than to little, at home I cant just do the dishes and clean up since I dont have the strength.
I like early morning sunlight. Inexpensive and no appointment necessary. Dog might like it too.
Biggest thing for me was stopping scrolling and stopping watching short form videos (TikTok and YT shorts). For me, making sure I've got everything done and sitting down to play a game or watching a show I enjoy is self-care. Scrolling instagram is self-sabotage.
I'm a quality-over-quantity guy, so that stuff repulses me. I only had brief encounters with Shorts, all shoved on me, and I think I never even loaded the TikTok website.
From what I understand, you're already doing exactly what the author says here. Hou do it AFTER meeting all your other needs, not taking away time from essential self-care, aka keeping your life together. Your piramyd of needs is not on it's head, so it's all good
I have been feeling so overwhelmed and stressed and that I fear I am going to have a heart attack or a stroke and so I sat down with my iPad on RUclips in order to take a mental break and you’re video popped up it was exactly what I needed to hear. I have been trying to escape reality through social media for over six years when my boyfriend was dying from cancer and I couldn’t handle it so I escaped through RUclips and my ability to handle stress has become so depleted and I was not able to escape my depression for five years I know the stress I feel now is because I can’t seem to find time for things are used to love doing like crafts genealogy, walking my dog etc. but yet I spend hours on the iPad thank you for your video I am going to make a conscious effort to limit my online time.
You're the first professional who really gets how a lot of us feel. Please would you consider making a video about how to cope with the anger and grief of having to be high maintenance when it comes to self-care? And the frustration of not being where we want to be in life because of the giant millstones around our neck that are our mental illnesses. At this point in my life I don't see the point in trying to get better because I'm so far behind I'll never get to where I want to be and my small achievements are nothing compared to anyone else's.
I have seen him address this very thing in some other videos. I'm sorry that I don't remember which. But in essence he says "it's really not fair that we have this extra disability to have to manage. But we do...."
I don't remember the exact wording, but I remember that this was a GIANT moment of revelation for me; something that no other therapist had ever recognized or voiced.
Before starting this process of beginning to accept my condition, the hand I've been dealt with managing severe depression, I started every day being dismayed all over again that this mental pressure is on me again, another day. And I spent more effort trying to escape that reality than trying to manage it (because nothing ever seemed to make it better). And all of this while regular therapists seemed to imply that putting the right stuff together would make it all heal and disappear.
This doctor acknowledging that it MAY not feel better the days you're managing the condition. Just have to do it anyway. It may be a lifelong condition to manage, or at least a years-long condition to manage. Or months-long. Or episodic. Whatever. The key being that we just have to manage it. It's like needing stuff for any other disability. It sucks, but what are you going to do? Do your best to have the best life possible, managing within whatever parameters we're dealt with day by day.
And Dr. Eilers does very much acknowledge that it sucks, a lot. I wish I remember which videos have this message. He probably does discuss HOW to cope with the grief of acknowledging it.
@@user-zk5rt3gb3e Thank you for your considerate and thoughtful response. Yes, I like Dr Scott's analogy that he uses in another video where he says people with chronic illnesses are like a certain sports car that is high maintenance and that it sucks. I accept (on good days) that I have to manage it, and that it sucks (which it absolutely does). I'm just so ambitious and feel that if I didn't have all these mental health conditions I'd be so much better off with my career and I get so angry that I've lost YEARS to these conditions. I'm a relatively new subscriber so am still working my way through his videos and I may come across this in other videos, but I thought I'd throw it out there just in case.
I'm glad that you have also been helped by Dr Scott. He really does get it like no other therapist I've had and my number is well into double figures at this point.
I recently had that conversation with myself about whether it was worth trying to get better, because I am already 57 years old and retired. But yes, for me I do need to try to get better because where I am at now is not sustainable. I am not concerned about the size of my achievements or getting to where I want to be. I am actually not sure where I want to be, other than that I know I want to be better.
Thank you for this!
I feel technology has always been a problem for some people as long as it’s been around
Hell, when video games first came into the household they were as addicting as social media is today
They were, but we had to play at home. I loved videogames as a kid.
I know this. I’m struggling with this escape from my life. Trying to reengage with my world. Being present in reality is so hard to maintain. I’ve retreated , checked out mentally and physically for years. Thanks for your focused direction.
Scott, this is SO timely and.SO important!!! I recently "retired" to watch my 1 yr old grandson full-time and I still work part-time on weekends. So my retirement is not exactly full of free time 😂😂.
It's taken me almost a year to figure out how to budget time.for my essential mental health needs. I have to get to bed by10pm at the latest as my son drops the baby off at 5am. I have to schedule an outdoor walk every morning no matter te weather bc I need fresh air and movement and daylight to keep my mood.from spiraling. I spend 15 min most days doing wt training and 15 min yoga stretch every night. I also teach fitness class or go to the gym 5-6 times a.week. I intentionally reach out to one friend or family member each day. When all of these are done regularly, I feel pretty good!❤ But I have very little time.left for tv, phone scrolling or mindless entertainment..
This is the most helpful advice I've ever heard regarding technology and life in general. Thanks to Dr. Eilers for being so insightful and articulate.
You are incredible & you are a GODSEND. Describing me and my bf to a T with this. This video will for sure ruffle some feathers, because ppl don't like their coping mechanisms and addictions being challenged even mildly and extremely politely. But for me, this was invaluable. I'm also going to buy your book just because I love you so much for what you do, can relate to you extremely closely, and want to support you ❤
How did you do it 😭 I’m 24HRS a day on my phone I hate it here. A by product of extreme grief loss and trauma but I want my life back 💔
I glean from his video that he's saying prioritize your activity from bottom tier - up. (Instead of most enjoyable top tier - down). In other words, prioritize doing the things that don't feel like they're as much fun. Do the things that *don't* provide the fun of distractioin.
Instead: do the things you least want to do (that you know are *necessary* for you to not spiral downward, or that are *necessary* for anything to continue working in your life).
He's acknowledging in this video that it is not fun. It's awful that we need to prioritize this way, but it is a fact of life, especially if you have a chronic condition that needs more care (mental or physical). But really everybody has to prioritize bottom-up if they want to accomplish anything in life.
@ thank you for this comprehensive breakdown ❤️🩹
WOW!! Thank you, brother! Your insights are so genius level. When I listen to your videos, I feel like you’re literally reading my mind. I beg you, please don’t ever stop sharing your expertise. You are saving lives, and helping thousands and thousands of people. We all love you, and owe you so very much! Thank you for all yo do. We trust you! ❤
Thank you so much Dr.Scott. I watch A LOT of self help videos. But nothing resonates with me like yours.
Thank you so much for these videos Dr. Scott. Merry Christmas to you and your family.
At 66, I’ve been in and out (mostly IN) of various forms of therapy for over 30 of those. I’ve RaReLy heard you, Dr.Eilers, say anything that didn’t ring SO true that I’m nodding and
“YES”sing through your vids. Thank you for the reinforcement! Now I’ve got to turn off this device!👊🏼💥✌🏽👊🏼Happy Holidays to you & fam. I’ll be back 😉
Hi doc! Thank you for making these videos. I feel so validated by your videos than by my actual therapist. Could you please make a video on how to cope with family members who are cold, dismissive and neglectful? I feel very depressed and lonely and my family is making it worse. I'm dependent on them so I could not leave them yet.
Not doc, but 1) always remember it is them no matter how much they want you to believe it's you, 2) make as many outside connections as you can so that 3) you can get out as early as possible. Generic advice, I know - but I had a friend who was in that position and eventually got out. It takes a huge toll though, not gonna lie, and I'm so sorry for what you are going through. Stay strong!
(Sorry if you didn't need anyone else butting in)
I really think ignorance is bliss, i remember growing up in the 90s and i'm not saying everything was perfect, nothing ever is but there were no major distractions, people walked head up and talked and i just can't believe how far we have fallen, i get hooked in as well and it is because i don't want to face my reality. My avoidance and mental ill health make me an easy mark in todays app and addiction driven life and i can't decide what's worse, the silence and misery or the distraction and misery
I miss the 90s so much. Everything seemed so much better back then. 9/11 was when it all fell apart and has been unrelentingly awful ever since.
This showed up at precisely the right time. Thank you! Will be searching for a video I hope you've done, or will consider -- irrational anger/resentment when "doing the right thing" as far as self-care, mental health, etc., actually works? So childlike, but going to bed on time, etc. and feeling good the next day pisses me off!!! Like I should know better.
I feel that so hard! What? all that distress cured by a peanut butter sandwich??? Unreasonable
Yes! It feels like such a waste of time!
I knew from day one that the computer was evil. I refused to get anything, even a cell phone. My husband and sister were hounding me to get online. I finally caved. My husband is now addicted to internet porn, had an affair with a woman he met online resulting in a child and my sister disowned me after I posted a photo she thought was inappropriate. She has not seen or spoken to me in 22 years. That’s my story and I stand by it. Never let ANYONE convince you to go against your gut instinct.
Thanks - finally someone doesn't find it weird to not have internet or Whatsapp or social media on the phone
True. Additionally, I have realized through time that passive consumption of social media is better for my mental health than regular posting on Facebook, or wherever. Regular posting makes havoc inside my mind: I feel addicted, with constant need to often check my socials for likes, comments, and mindless scrolling. Of course, with much less energy for achieving anything important that day. It's way better when I don't post or even like regularly.
When I feel i had enough, I deactivate my account for 24h or 48h, which restarts my mind perfectly, better than simply not logging in.
I try to stay away from ALL NEGATIVITY online . 😊
Personal responsibilty is important, but the odds of having enough time or energy in this modern life to fullly take care of ourselves ate stacked against us well.
The physical activity thing is really hard for me right now because its so damned cold out, and i really thrive walking or jogging outside. I can go to the mall or Walmart or something, but its not the same. Lifting i can do a couple days a week, but they dont make me feel the same. I never thought I'd miss warm weather.
Thanks for pointing this out. I mean we all kind of now that technology addiction is huge, yet so many of us are relativistic when it comes to this and dismiss the harsh truths still.
Like 'It's okay to have leasure time on the phone' while ignoring the actual screen time. Or 'I quit social media like facebook and Instagram' while the attention only shifted towards RUclips and reddit.
With tech I feel like it's with food. It's necessary and also brings a lot of benefits and fun with it. But there's the risk of consuming too much of it - especially the stuff with low nutritional value.
Great analogy 👍
I think this may be your best video yet!
Thank you for helping us.... a lot! :)
Thanks for addressing this topic and for your honesty. This is eye opening.
I'm a relatively low maintenance person, I just need a fixed sleep routine, my prescription meds, and at least one big home cooked meal (which doesn't even have to be complicated, I just feel better when I cook and eat for myself) per day, and then all the tedious chores like dishes and stuff. I get enough interaction with my partner, work, and online friends to feel satisfied socially.
Thank you! I needed this video so much! I turned off all notifications on my phone and browser this morning in an effort to reduce distractions, but this makes me want to take things much further than that. I certainly need to prioritize my health and well-being rather than spending so much time on my phone. You have given me a lot to think about.
I like going for a walk more than technology but I still don't make it every day 😭
it's so counterintuitive and unmotivating, feels like giving up all the fun or most of it to eventually with no guarantee, actually feel better
See this is the issue ive faced for a while. I know my phone use is terrible. I hate my phone in fact. But sometimes the use is so compulsive. Sometimes i don't know what to do but use my phone. And sometimes i dont know why i need to but i do and it feels out of my control
Thanks!
How is leisure time not a basic need? Especially when feeling burned out from doing things that are clichée-helping with the life basics but are often making things even worse when dealing with them, or less extremely, just not yield any reward, not even mid-term.
I used to be a big gamer in my youth, but gradually, the things that relate to addiction optimization put me off. I was missing the healthy element. Now I would have to really push myself hard to even play a game. It would be like hard work. Because I prefer to spend my relief time watching informative and/or morally uplifting things on RUclips, and also a bit of checking what is going on in world affairs.
I can still appreciate games that help with real life affairs. Nature designed games as training, as simulated real life challenges. I draw meaning from that.
The best thing I did for myself is get off social media. I have RUclips only. When I'm depressed, which is ALL THE TIME YAAY CHRONIC MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS! social media feeds that mental monster, and I start to feel so much worse. I know when I start hiding feeds or blocking content left and right that it's time for me to go. I have learned my limit. The people who truly care about me know how to reach me and I know how to reach them. You learn who your friends are real fast when you don't make yourself easy to reach.
My hobbies are gaming and writing and reading. I don't have the energy to do much else until I get my physical health sorted, which has been a struggle since I hit rock bottom nearly four years ago after my divorce. Being kind to yourself really is a wonderful way to be. Sometimes it's hard, but caring for yourself can be fun, and it is certainly rewarding.
Thank you, Dr. Scott.
Hard pill to swallow 😢 but i have to admit you're right.
Thank you, Dr. Eilers. Like many others have mentioned, I truly appreciate how you offer genuine advice without trying to push courses or books (even though I know you’ve written one). Your openness and authenticity really stand out. I hope you continue to stay this way, even though it might not be the most profitable path.
In an attention economy, your screen time is worth more than you realize.
I'm a low maintenance guy, and I relate to you 100% brother. Thank you for everything you do for the community. God bless. 🙏
Thanks Doc Scott. I took your advice about finding something about winter to enjoy. I did that and made a couple of "Frosty's" of Snow. I'm 60y and I thought about the other kids out building snowmen, and then that at most, if at all, more likely they were in the house, doing it on their media/gaming devices. Sad, that.
This video and your content is highly relevant to today. Thank you for sharing and caring!❤
Allahuakbar
Pare an 🌊 water when he spit fully aware
Thank you! I needed to hear this!
Thank you for this. I love this channel because you’re so relatable. Also YES PLEASE about the future finance video 🙂↕️
This is great information. I find myself in front of TV a lot. I try to have certain days for certain things like getting all the bills taken care of. I should do what you do and pay attention to everything i need to do in the one day but every day. I wouldn't have a lot of time for TV that I have now.
Like everything else technology has its downside. It lets me connect with Dr.Scott & others like me & gives my brain something to do on days when I can’t get out of bed. But there are days when I feel like I was happier b4 cell phones & tech stuff. Now I’m too connected too informed & too overwhelmed with it all. I struggle to balance myself to avoid the tech overload.
I used to spend such a lot of time on Facebook. I was in lots of groups and constantly jumping from one to another. As a result l wasted hours each day. I am 68 and l live alone so l am not neglecting anyone else. My one regret is l could have given more of that time to my dog. She wasn't neglected in a bad way but l spent too much time on social media. It was difficult coming off Facebook. It meant finding ways to fill my time. I am still trying to do this more. I now use my phone to take photos, to count my steps, doing Bible study. I also play games but limit how long as my eyes get tierd l also listen to the radio or music on RUclips. I can do that without looking at a screen.
Thank you very much. I appreciate your content
Thank you
Very helpful thankyou 💜
Thank you for another meaningful video.
Such helpful advice, thank you 🙏🏻
Your content is very helpful, as always!👍👍
Yes
That was perfect timing for notification sound. I thought it was intentional.
Thanks for this 😊
I agree with most of the things he is saying but its also not a one size fits all plan. To me, that life just sounds like surviving, instead of living. I do agree that social media and technology has done more harm for me and a lot of people than good. Its helps that i found him and Dr. K through technology, but also i probably would have not needed to if it weren't for the advancements in social media and other things.
I'm completely addicted to video games. And being disabled, I got nothin' but time for them. They are my default activity. I have no family, no relationship, no job, and nothing better to do. I know damned well that there's millions of more meaningful and worthwhile things I could do with my time. Things that might actually get me out of this hellhole of a meaningless, purposeless, worthless existence and let me finally, at the age of 51, become a grownup. Things that stand a chance of actually improving my life. But I just play games all the time. I would say easily 2/3 of my waking hours go to gaming. And when I try to imagine leaving the games behind to get more important things done, I feel a cold breeze blow across my soul, as if leaving the clammy comfort of gaming would be akin to walking naked through a snowstorm.
And I know this addiction is the main thing by far keeping me where I am.
And where I am is not good.
But I don't feel like I have the power to change it.
Anyhow, thanks for the video, Doctor Scott!
My pc/phone games merely substitute for the physical things; I have played board games, often by myself, since I was a child in the 70s. Technology gives me a wider variety, quicker "results," and I still play by myself. This is what a lot of people don't get about my games and me...I did it before the technology existed. That said, I try to stay off Facebook, otherwise I end up scrolling, and scrolling. I don't do the other social media apps. I do also tend to scroll and scroll through my news app. Now that I have retired, I don't do email. I do RUclips, but for me RUclips is mostly like the educational channel on TV: Oooh, look at all the cool and interesting things to learn, which I can then apply to my coping skills, mental health, and physical reality (such as crafts). Also, I have recently started to use audiobooks, although I need to figure out the most efficient way to do that. So yes, I definitely have thought about cutting back on my screentime.
You could do the exact same argumentation with work. It steals your time, it brings psychological trouble and reduces the joy of your non-working hours. Family and sports and playtime makes you happy, not work.
Excellent!
As a 3-year old, I resent that comment. 😊😅😂 seriously this is an invaluable video. I am going to share it with my teen son when he is in a receptive mood.
Yet here we are
Make your commute a physical activity.
I grew up before the internet (late 40s) & I feel guilty for laying around on my days off watching youtube
Buy his book!! You won't be sorry!! It could change your life!
14:19 Luigi Mangioni knew that
Can you touch on escaping life with alcohol or drugs? Im sure you see that a lot. Much appreciated.
Hey Doc, I'd love to see you make a colab with Dr. K from Healthygamergg. You guys have literally saved my life.
I like him but he probably has no idea who I am 😂
Did you get into physical exercise for the purpose of improving mental health? I get a good workout at work but looking into some easy options for helping with my anxiety, adhd, and depression. Some starter goals, guidelines, or even ideas would be great to learn about from your perspective.
Important message
lmao the ebay *cha-ching* made me laugh
I haven't been able to get back to my healthy routines since the covid lockdowns. It's almost 5 years now! What's going on??? Is it me?
"I tried it on your behalf" 🤣😆🤣
I stole that from another therapist 😂
Anyone have any suggestions for alternatives to tv shows? It’s the main thing I do online that is not communicative
I really appreciate your efforts! Just a quick off-topic question: My OKX wallet holds some USDT, and I have the seed phrase. (alarm fetch churn bridge exercise tape speak race clerk couch crater letter). How can I transfer them to Binance?
Huh?
Lmao I sold something on Poshmark less than a minute after your eBay notification 😂
😂
HELP PLEASE
What do you do when your work is on Facebook, instagram, etc. I'm with Nutrimetics Australia and New Zealand, plus Scentsy Australia and Zealand. I have no choice, even though it frustrates me every day, as im soooo sick of Facebook, etc, now because I'm on it so much, as im an independent consultant in both businesses.. I need income. How do I literally make time for me, plus do my business? Much love from Tasmania Australia 🇦🇺
I have always wondered WHY the very first time I played electronic Monopoly, later Freecell, I was "hooked." As like drugs. Willing to spend every single free moment playing them. Not interested in any other game. No care if I win or lose. Just play. Even sometimes without the device. Geez.
Is there a biological hook involved?
9:26 cash register sound
How to stops gaming? I Just can't
My (unpopular) opinion is that school shootings would go down dramatically within a year or two of eliminating shooting games. Ft. Irwin used them long before they were introduced to the public because they reduced the hesitation, the moral barrier to shooting a human being.
It’s unpopular because it is unfounded and stupid. Studies show no correlation.
You sound defensive about your relationship with technology. Is there a TA chapter where you live?
Um, sorry to be this kind of guy, but I totally hate your video and I think you are deadly wrong about many things.
First of all, I believe in individualism and I think every person is unique and you seem to usd lots ideas "this is how it works for EVERYONE, no exceptions."
1) "Technology is escapism!" - everything might be escapism. Could be videogames, could be going to a bar to drink with friends, could you going to the gym.
2) "Technology is bad for you mental health." - what if it actually helps me with my mental health? What if it helps me relax after a stressfull day in a job? What if is not for my mental health to be forced to be "social", to be in a open-space office all day and so on? I am an autistic person and it drains my energy.
3) "Exactly 2 hours is good, more is bad." - this is a very random number. If it works for you, OK... how much is ok and healthy is kinda subjective. What if I have a better time-management than you and can push three hours into gaming? What if I don't have kids? Actually, you can do both... you can spent with your kids gaming a bit :) Saying more will damange my mental health - come on, you don't know me. You don't know my personal feelings.
4) Also, I really doubt there are people who do more gaming than 2 hours... Perhaps teenagers who have anything to do and all they basic things are done by their mums, so they can play Fortnite all day... but aside of that, I doubt it's a common thing and you address a group of people that is probably rare. And people in this group typically know they might have a problem if they stay all night playing games.
5) Basically you're saying "too much technology is bad" which known by everybody, so you're not saying anything new. In your thumbnail you said "it's the opposite" so I was hoping to hear something new and I feel a lil disapponted to be honest :) It's just the same as always.
After watching this, I am eating for the first time today after being up for 6 hours! 😏 Now rewatching. Thank you for this reminder! 🩷