The universe is so exquisitely balanced such that life can exist in this world. For example, it is a wonder that the earth stays in its orbit around the sun. The interesting fact is that the two effects of speeding up and stronger gravitational attraction perfectly balance, so that the earth stays in its orbit. Imbibing the ‘balancing spirit of the universe’, as human beings on earth, we also need to keep balance in different dimensions of life. Striking a careful balance in life is the secret of happiness. Imbalance creates chaos and balance is pivotal to our integral well-being. We need to learn ‘an art of balance’ between digital time or screen time and quality time for mental well-being. Let us keep in mind that when the demands and challenges placed on a person exceed the resources and coping abilities, that person’s mental health is affected. If mental health is affected, can it affect the integral human health? The answer is ‘yes’.
Mental health is important for our overall health. Mental health even helps us to fulfill our human potential. “Good mental health and well-being are essential for all of us to lead fulfilling lives, to realize our full potential, to participate productively in our communities, and to demonstrate resilience in the face of stress and adversity” writes Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, the current Director-General of World Health Organization. Mental health is more than the absence of mental disorders. It is a step beyond managing active mental conditions by looking after ongoing wellness and happiness. To fall in love with our mental well-being, our mode of digital connectivity also needs to be analyzed.
Fr Binny Marydas
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