There is no way to ignore it. Technology is an integral part of our daily lives, making its conscious and balanced use essential for strengthening mental health. Although these tools offer considerable benefits, such as access to information and facilitating communication, they can pose significant risks when used improperly.
In an interview with the magazine "MozaVibe," psychologist Elcídio Baltazar, specializing in social intervention, trauma assistance and counseling, as well as decision-making, highlighted the need to know how to use technologies effectively.
He mentioned that maintaining a balance between digital time and essential activities is fundamental for development, explaining that he has experience in assisting adolescents and young people with anxiety and depression.
Elcídio Baltazar encourages people to "turn digital challenges into opportunities for healthy and balanced development." In his opinion, young people need to understand that "ICT is not a life, but a resource to promote services and acquire knowledge for personal or social development."
The approach of caregivers must also adapt to digital challenges and create opportunities. "Parents should promote extracurricular and social activities as an effective way to reduce exposure time, for example, to social networks," he commented. He argues that "children need to explore the world, but this discovery should be guided by a parent or guardian, as all the information a child is exposed to influences, directly or indirectly, the formation of their personality."
Another important aspect is setting clear limits on the use of technologies, which involves "defining balanced rules for screen time to help avoid excessive use and ensure that social networks do not replace important social interactions and activities."
Elcídio Baltazar has played a fundamental role in promoting mental health. With extensive experience in social intervention and trauma counseling, he guides both young people and adults on the healthy use of Information and Communication Technologies.
(By Rafael Langa)
