Is Brain Fog the Price of Staying Connected

Yesterday, while responding to an email, a notification appeared about a sale on dog beds, which led me to check my Venmo account, which reminded me to pay a bill, which somehow ended with me watching a video about the recent passing of Phil Lesh. Fifteen minutes later, I had no idea where this "rabbit hole" started. Oh yeah, the email reply.

Sound familiar? Is it brain fog, or is something else going on?

What is Brain Fog

Brain fog isn’t a medical diagnosis but rather a term used to describe a range of cognitive symptoms. These include difficulty concentrating, forgetfulness, mental fatigue, and a general sense of sluggishness. While brain fog can result from factors like poor sleep, stress, or diet, many people wonder if technology plays a role in exacerbating these symptoms.

How Technology Might Contribute to Brain Fog

Excessive dependence on technology challenges our cognitive abilities by fragmenting our attention and weakening our memory and critical thinking. This can overwhelm the brain and make it harder to focus, process information and think deeply.

• Fragmented Attention

  One of the primary criticisms of modern technology is its tendency to fragment our attention. Notifications, emails, texts, and endless scrolling create a multitasking environment. Research shows that humans aren’t as good at multitasking as we think. Each interruption requires mental energy to refocus, which can lead to cognitive fatigue over time.

  
  

• Digital Amnesia

  Our phones have become an external memory bank. We no longer need to memorize phone numbers, birthdays, or even basic knowledge because it’s all accessible with a few taps. While this convenience is beneficial, it raises concerns about "digital amnesia," a term coined by researchers to describe the tendency to forget information we trust our devices to remember. This reliance could reduce our capacity for critical thinking and recall, contributing to feelings of mental dullness.

  
  

• Screen Time

  It's well understood that being on your digital devices before bed has been linked to poorer sleep quality. Even if blue light is being filtered by the device, engaging with screens, especially for work, social media, news, or gaming, keeps the brain active and alert, making it harder to wind down and relax before bed.

  
  

• Decision Fatigue

  The huge volume of information we consume daily can overwhelm the brain. Unrelated information from different sources and channels competes for our attention, leading to decision fatigue. As the brain works to filter and process this deluge of data, it can feel fatigued and less capable of deeper, sustained thinking.

Ok, but is it really my tech that's making my brain foggy? While it’s easy to blame technology for brain fog, it’s worth reminding ourselves of the cognitive advantages technology offers us.

• Free Up Mental Energy

  Software designed to write and brainstorm, organize tasks, set reminders, and streamline workflows can reduce cognitive load. By delegating some tasks to technology, we free up mental energy for more creative and strategic thinking.

  
  

• Creating Meaningful Connections

  Despite concerns about digital isolation, technology also enables meaningful connections. Connecting with friends and family and participating in online communities can help people manage stress and gain clarity, counteracting some contributors to brain fog.

  
  

• Brain Training

  There are many apps designed to improve memory, focus, and problem-solving. Studies have shown that certain types of cognitive training games can enhance working memory and attention spans, particularly in older adults.

So now what?

Whether technology is making us mentally weaker, and creating brain fog; or, improving our lives, depends largely on how we use it. Here's a few ways to think about how to create a healthy balanced relationship with technology.

• Set Boundaries on Screen Time

  Designate tech-free zones or times, such as during meals or the hour before bed, to reduce cognitive strain and improve sleep. It's okay to leave your phone in another room while you're eating dinner or chatting with a friend.

  
  

• Single-Task & Take Breaks

  Avoid multitasking and focus on one task at a time. Techniques like the Pomodoro Method can improve concentration and efficiency. The Pomodoro Method is a technique that boosts focus and productivity. It's a simple process where you work on something for 25 minutes (a Pomodoro) and then take a 5 minute break. After 4 Pomodoros, take a 15 minute break.

  
  

• Curate Your Information Diet

  Limit exposure to unnecessary or overwhelming information by unsubscribing from excessive notifications and practicing mindful consumption of media. Clicking the unsubscribe button on an email, or turning off a notification, can feel liberating. Oh, and avoid doomscrolling. It's just not good for you.

  
  

Technology is neither wholly to blame for brain fog nor an magic solution to cognitive challenges. Like many things in life, the key lies in how we use it. By recognizing its potential to distract and overstimulate, we can take proactive steps to mitigate its negative effects while leveraging its benefits to enhance mental clarity.

It's all about balance.