Digital technology has fundamentally changed the landscape for adverse childhood experiences — both worsening it through new channels of comparison and avoidance, and improving access to support and treatment.
How Technology Worsens Adverse Childhood Experiences
- Social media enables constant social comparison that amplifies adverse childhood experiences
- Notifications and always-on work culture prevent recovery from stress
- Doomscrolling and news consumption can worsen anxiety and mood
- Screen time late at night disrupts sleep patterns that regulate adverse childhood experiences
- Passive consumption replaces active activities that buffer against adverse childhood experiences
How Technology Helps Adverse Childhood Experiences
- Teletherapy has dramatically improved access to adverse childhood experiences treatment
- Mental health apps provide evidence-based tools at low cost
- Online communities reduce isolation for those with adverse childhood experiences
- Educational content helps people understand and destigmatize adverse childhood experiences
Healthy Technology Habits for Adverse Childhood Experiences
- Designated phone-free times (especially mornings and before bed)
- Curate social media to reduce adverse childhood experiences triggers
- Intentional vs. passive consumption
- Balance screen time with activities that genuinely restore