Mysuru: SDM Institute for Management Development (SDMIMD) organised a special lecture on ‘Emotional Wellbeing in the Digital Era’. The session was delivered by Raveesh BN, Professor and HoD of psychiatry at Mysore Medical College and Research Institute (MMC&RI), who addressed students on the growing challenges of social media addiction, digital stress, and the importance of cultivating healthy mental habits.Addressing the students, Raveesh observed that digital tools are a double-edged sword. While technology offers numerous advantages, its adverse effects cannot be ignored. He pointed out that today’s generation is increasingly addicted to the internet, social media, and online gaming, which significantly affect users’ attention spans, memory, and cognitive abilities.Explaining the root causes of digital addiction, Raveesh highlighted several psychological and social factors, including a lack of affection and emotional support, the need for validation, the desire for social influence and group identity, and the tendency to escape from unpleasant realities. He further noted that excessive digital exposure from early childhood, body image concerns, low self-esteem, cyberbullying, online harassment, and the prevailing culture of social comparison have made the younger generation increasingly vulnerable to mental health challenges.Speaking on ways to overcome these issues, Raveesh shared practical strategies for enhancing emotional well-being. Stressing that digital technology should be used with awareness and moderation, he encouraged students to practise self-regulation and maintain healthy digital habits.He explained that maintaining digital hygiene, using technology intentionally, and following structured daily routines can significantly strengthen emotional resilience. He also emphasised the importance of nurturing meaningful interpersonal relationships, spending quality time away from digital devices, and maintaining good sleep hygiene to preserve emotional and mental well-being.
