Face-to-face conversations allow us to truly connect as human beings and form deep, meaningful relationships.
We are more ‘social’ than ever online, but this can lead to a lack of real-life human connection – especially when we have access to an addictive virtual world in the palm of our hands.
The average phone user clicks, taps or swipes their phone 2,617 times a day during 76 different sessions, and stares at the screen for 145 minutes a day, according to a study by research company Dscout. However, it is real-life contact that human beings need. A University of Michigan study found that replacing face-to-face contact with emails, text messages and phone calls can double the risk of depression. But meeting our loved ones at least three times a week reduces this risk. Try to switch off your gadgets, look up and talk to people. Interacting in this way can help to alleviate depression and feelings of isolation, and ultimately makes us more kind. A smiley emoji is no replacement for the sound of a friend’s laughter.
