Every morning, millions of people begin their day the same way, by reaching for their phones before even getting out of bed. It’s a small act, yet it quietly reveals how deeply technology has become woven into our emotions, routines and mental health. As we mark the World Mental Health Day, attention this year turns to a growing concern over digital mental health.
With screens dominating both our personal and professional lives, the line between connection and exhaustion has never been thinner. Many organisations have marked the occasion with awareness sessions, wellness workshops and digital detox initiatives to remind employees that mental health is as essential as physical health. Experts warn that in workplaces where messages, notifications and online meetings never seem to end, digital overload has become a silent threat to productivity and wellbeing.
“People underestimate how deeply constant connectivity affects the mind”, says Dr Hilal al Maqbali, an academic. “When employees are always online, the brain doesn’t get time to recharge. This leads to burnout, anxiety and even a sense of disconnection from real life”. The impact extends far beyond offices. For many individuals, the day begins with endless scrolling through social media and ends with late night checking of emails or trending short videos. This constant engagement, though seemingly harmless, can increase stress and disturb sleep.
“I realised I was starting every day feeling anxious before even leaving bed”, says Faisal al Shamsi, a young professional. “Now I avoid my phone for the first 30 minutes after waking up. it’s made a huge difference in how I feel and how my day goes on”. To counter these effects, mental health advocates are promoting digital hygiene which is a mindful approach to using technology. Tips include setting screen-free hours, turning off unnecessary notifications, practicing offline hobbies and tracking screen time. Some Omani companies have even introduced “digital wellness breaks” during the workday to help employees reset.
Still, technology isn’t the enemy. Used wisely, it can enhance mental wellbeing through therapy apps, mindfulness platforms and online support communities. The challenge lies in finding balance where digital tools serve us, not control us.
Educational institutions are also joining the effort. Schools and universities across Oman are organising workshops on digital wellbeing, helping students understand how online habits influence their focus, mood and relationships. “Our students need to learn early that mental health includes how they engage online”, says Halima al Balushi, an educational principal. “Building balance now will shape a healthier generation for the future”. As we live in such a rapidly improving fast country and lifestyles, one message stands clear, caring for the mind today also means caring for our digital habits.
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