Do you wear a smartwatch or fitness tracker? Many of us do, monitoring everything from steps to sleep to oxygen levels. But have we stopped to consider whether this data might do more harm than good?
Tonight, our guests Doug and Jamie Baker share their insights on the psychological impact of wearable tech. Jamie admits she wears a smartwatch for convenience and punctuality, especially since her workplace time clock is 30 seconds off. It helps her log her steps, monitor her heart rate, and even reminds her to drink water. “It’s just a watch,” Jamie says, downplaying its influence.
Doug, on the other hand, proudly avoids such devices. He believes you don’t need a smartwatch to tell you to move more. “I know I need to stay in shape,” he says. “I don’t need a watch to remind me.”
Recent reports reveal that some users develop unhealthy obsessions with the data their devices provide. Studies have shown links between wearable tech and worsened eating disorders, obsessive exercise habits, and anxiety over daily health metrics.
As the popularity of wearable devices grows, the discussion around their impact on mental health continues. Tonight’s conversation serves as a reminder that while technology can be a helpful tool, it’s essential to maintain balance.
Explore: NBCPalmSprings.com, where we are connecting the Valley.
By: NBC Palm Springs
May 25, 2025
