Balancing Virtual and Real Connections: A Game Changer for Youth
In our tech-filled world, cell phones and screens have become an everyday part of life, offering endless opportunities for learning, connecting, and creativity.
However, it’s important to recognize the impact that too much screen time can have on our well-being—especially for young people.
Excessive time on social media can impact mental health.
Research published in Pediatrics found that teens who spend more than two hours a day on social media or gaming are more likely to experience anxiety and depression. The constant exposure to carefully curated images online can also lead to self-comparison, chipping away self-esteem and increasing feelings of inadequacy.
Relying on online interactions can also lead to social isolation, as in-person connections are replaced virtually.
Excessive social media use can also leave kids feeling isolated, even though they may seem "connected,” according to the American Academy of Pediatrics. Real-world relationships help build qualities that are harder to develop when a youth’s interactions are primarily online—empathy, social skills, and emotional resilience.
Extended screen time can take a physical toll.
Prolonged sedentary behaviour—such as spending hours scrolling or gaming—has been linked to a higher risk of obesity and related health issues in young people, the World Health Organization noted. A balanced lifestyle that includes physical activity is crucial for healthy growth and development in youth.
The JOMO(campus) Approach: Rediscovering Joy Offline
At JOMO(campus), we embrace the ‘Joy of Missing Out’ instead of the constant pull of notifications and endless scrolling.
The goal isn’t to eliminate technology; it’s to create a balanced, joyful relationship with it. By unplugging and being intentional about our screen time, we open up space for what truly matters—our well-being, our relationships, and the simple joys of the present moment.
When young people learn to set healthy boundaries around their digital use, they gain the freedom to engage fully in activities that bring them happiness, fulfillment, and real-world connection.
How we help foster this balance:
Mindful Screen Time: Helping young people develop an awareness of their screen habits allows them to make intentional choices and encourages them to limit their screen time to meaningful, productive activities.
Dr. Michael Rich, founder of the Harvard Digital Wellness Lab, recommends: “Upgrade by 1: DM instead of a comment. Text instead of DM. Call instead of text. Meet in person instead of over FaceTime. The more direct the communication, the more intimate it is.”
Promoting Real-World Connections: Creating opportunities for students to put down their phones, engage in face-to-face conversations, and participate in hands-on activities that foster new friendships, build confidence, and develop empathy and social skills.
Physical Activity and Digital Breaks: Encouraging regular breaks from screen time to engage in physical activity—such as sports, outdoor play, or even a simple walk—helps boost health, increase energy, sharpen focus, and provide a sense of accomplishment.
By fostering a balanced approach to technology, we’re investing in their well-being and future success, helping them thrive both online and offline.
