Template for Students Online Use

Hey there!

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We know that spending time online can be a fun and useful way to connect with friends, learn new things, and explore the world. However, it's important to be aware of the risks and take steps to manage your online use if you're spending too much time online.

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Symptoms of excessive online use can include anxiety, depression, poor sleep, and lack of motivation. It can also lead to difficulty forming relationships and isolation from family and friends.

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To maintain healthy online habits, it's important for teenagers to establish boundaries and limits on their screen time. This can include taking regular breaks, engaging in physical activities, and spending time with family and friends.

Some other tips include:

1.     Set goals for online use: Establishing goals can help you stay focused and avoid distractions. For example, you can set a goal to spend no more than two hours online per day.

2.     Turn off notifications: Turn off notifications for apps and social media to avoid constant interruptions and distractions.

3.     Practice mindfulness: Practicing mindfulness techniques such as meditation can help reduce stress and improve focus.

4.     Create tech-free zones: Establish tech-free zones in your home, such as the dinner table or bedroom, to help reduce online distractions and improve communication with family and friends.

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If you feel that your online use has signs of addiction such as difficulty cutting back, using online time to avoid negative feelings, or hiding your online use, you may want to speak to your parents about seeking additional professional help such as your primary care physician or a counsellor.

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There are several resources available to help teenagers struggling with excessive online use. Websites such as Help!My phone is taking over my life and Netsafe offer support, advice, and practical strategies to help teenagers maintain healthy online habits.

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Remember, it's important to maintain a healthy balance between online and offline activities. Take breaks, engage in physical activities, and spend time with family and friends to maintain a healthy lifestyle.