All around us information and ideas compete for our attention and tug at our desire to be in-the-know. With ease we connect to cell phones, or, computers, and from there the social media pages and expanses of data on the internet. Of course, we want to know what is happening in our communities and educating ourselves is a good thing. However, exposure to the endless supply of information at our fingertips and long hours spent on the internet often have a dramatic effect on our ability to cope. Technology use can be highly overwhelming. For those of us living with cancer, there is a strong need to know about the disease, to know what treatments are available, and what to expect. It is a natural response to gather information so that we can make informed decisions. However, the natural desire to be informed can turn into hours spent consuming too much technology and can lead to increased anxiety.

Worldwide, experts suggest that we limit the amount of time we engage in all forms of media. Dr. Daniel Levitin, author of The Organized Mind: Thinking Straight in the age of information Overload writes that we’ve created more information in the last 10 years than in all human history before that. He also says that our conscious brains can handle three to five things at a time. If we push to cram in more beyond that, we start to lose track of things and can become overwhelmed.

Here are some things to consider that may help you navigate:

Define the purpose What am I trying to find out? Perhaps your medical team told you about a new study and you want to investigate it. “Okay, I’m researching for the purpose of finding out __and then I’m going to stop for the day.”

Set your intention Before you begin on a deep dive of internet searches think purposefully of what you really want and set your intention with your time. “How much time do I have, really? Okay anything more than one hour is too much.”

Stop at your intended time. Maybe even set a timer. Once the time is up, keep to your boundary and stop.

Do a check in with yourself After digesting a lot of information in whatever form, pay attention to your own experience. “What thoughts am I having?”  If you are feeling anxious, or notice a racing mind, you can do a reset. Step away from the computer or put the phone down. Do some slow breathing, take a walk, sip a cup of tea or step outside to notice the trees or birds.

Limit the Sources of Information You Use. Decide where you will get your information and stick to those you trust, two or three sources is often plenty. 

David M. Levy, author of Mindful Tech: How to Bring Balance to Our Digital Lives, says that we don’t need to do away with all electronic devices. Levy endorses the strategies of intention and attention in deciding how to make use of the available information: be aware of your intention and pay attention to how use of technology is affecting you. He writes “We are using them (Computers, technology); we don’t need to allow technology to use us”- this is an important distinction.

We invite you to register for & attend Stress Reduction & Relaxation Classes offered weekly through Cancer Lifeline or participate in one of our support groups where you can discuss feelings and learn new coping strategies with others that truly understand.