In the last ten years the use of electronic communication devices has boomed. Most of us have mobile phones and the majority of under 30 year olds have smart phones. The use of computers has become an integral part of our lives. Instant messaging and emails have overtaken letters as the most popular way to keep in touch.
These new forms of communication have benefits but can also cause anxiety, poor self esteem and can be all-consuming to the detriment of work and friendships. Are you more stressed since you joined a social media site? Everyone is always on the end of a line but this instant availability can also be intrusive. The jury is out on whether texting and emailing is addictive, but for some their lives do seem to be controlled by social media.