Unplug to recharge 

In the digital age, healthcare professionals are increasingly recognizing the impact of electronic devices and social media on their well-being and the well-being of their patients. Constant online connectivity can lead to information overload, decreased productivity, and heightened stress levels. For clinicians, whose jobs demand precision, empathy, and focus, these distractions can be particularly detrimental. By taking steps to minimize these distractions, healthcare professionals can enhance their well-being, improve their work-life integration, and provide better care to patients. 

I personally realized this recently, as I became more irritated with my own smartwatch interrupting me and pulling my attention from tasks in front of me. I started to realize that this continuous stream of notifications from multiple apps (including the electronic medical record) was significantly disrupting my concentration and ability to attend to the task and/or patient at hand. By removing my smartwatch (or you may wish to set it to only deliver critical alerts) I noticed a significant reduction in my irritability, and improvement in my ability to stay focused. Additionally, setting specific times to check emails and social media, rather than doing so continuously throughout the day, can help clinicians manage their time more effectively. Doing this reduced my own stress by allowing me to not feel pulled in so many different directions at once. Implementing “digital detox” periods, where all electronic devices are turned off, can also be beneficial. These periods can be during meals, exercise, or before bedtime, allowing for true rest and recovery without digital interruptions. 

Healthcare professionals should also be mindful of their social media usage. While social media can be a valuable tool for networking and staying informed about medical advancements, it can also be a source of stress and distraction. Limiting social media use to professional purposes and setting time limits can help providers maintain a healthier balance. Engaging in offline activities, such as favorite hobbies and spending time with loved ones, can provide a much-needed break from the digital world and promote overall well-being. 

Transitioning from personal practices to patient care, clinicians have a unique opportunity to positively influence their patients’ and their families’ digital habits. When discussing the importance of reducing electronic distractions, healthcare professionals can draw from their experiences and give practical advice. This conversation is particularly crucial when speaking with parents about their children’s screen time. 

Clinicians can start by educating patients about the potential negative effects of excessive screen time, such as sleep disturbances, reduced physical activity, and reduced social skills. Providing tangible recommendations, such as setting screen time limits, creating tech-free zones in the home, and encouraging alternative activities like outdoor play and reading, can be helpful. 

When talking with parents of children, healthcare professionals should emphasize the importance of setting a positive example. Parents who demonstrate healthy digital habits are more likely to have children who follow suit. Encouraging parents to have open conversations with their children about the benefits of reducing screen time and involving them in setting family rules around device usage can foster a supportive environment with an understanding of device limits and appropriate usage. 

By prioritizing their well-being through mindful use of electronic devices and social media, healthcare professionals can not only enhance their own health but also serve as role models for their patients and their families. Through education and support, they can empower patients and families to make healthier choices in the digital age, leading to improved overall well-being for all. 

This piece expresses the views solely of the author. It does not necessarily represent the views of any organization, including Johns Hopkins Medicine.