Ironically, the very thing we turn to for increased connectivity with others is proving to be the biggest disconnection point in our lives. Not only are we distracting ourselves from face-to-face interactions, but the virtual relationships we’re prioritizing are often lacking in the most important connection point of all – the intimacy of in-person warmth and sincerity.
To detect the presence or extent of your virtual void, ask yourself:
- What am I doing online?
- How am I connecting with others?
- What is the content of that connection?
- Would I be willing for your spouse or members of my family to view all of my online activities and content?
- Relationships are formed through time – what relationships do I have online?
- What emotional needs are being met through these online relationships?
- How would I feel if I were unable to connect online for a day? A week? A month?
- How many non-family online relationships do I maintain?
- Of those relationships, how many do I keep strictly online – meaning I don’t talk or visit but only connect online?
- Are there any online relationships that pose a threat or provide competition to your real-life relationships?
- Am I willing, within the next week, to modify, limit, or sever any online relationship or activity that poses such a threat?
- If so, what is my step-by-step action plan for doing that?
- If I'm not willing, what is holding me back? Be specific. Am I willing to seek professional help to overcome this barrier?
This post is excerpted from Turning Your Down Into Up: A Realistic Plan for Healing from Depression by Dr. Gregory Jantz.