Avoid a digital disaster: Stay cyber safe

Staying healthy isn’t solely about physical well-being. Honoring your mental health by avoiding pitfalls that could impact it is just as important as eating right, exercising and getting enough quality sleep.

One way to offer your mental health the peace of mind it needs is to practice strong cybersecurity. Cybersecurity refers to safety practices when using digital devices. It could involve anything from choosing strong passwords for your online accounts to educating yourself about — and avoiding — online scams that could put your personal information at risk.

Strong cybersecurity habits can reduce stress, provide a sense of control and enhance mental clarity. Safeguarding your digital environment positively impacts your well-being, and simple actions can make a big difference, says Peter Lopez-Perez, a licensed psychotherapist and Sharp’s cybersecurity awareness specialist, explains.

How cybersecurity protects your mental health

According to Lopez-Perez, the digital tools we use can help — and harm. The risk of cyber threats due to poor cybersecurity can create underlying stress. Research highlights that strong security measures reduce fear and anxiety, fostering a sense of safety and predictability.

“When people feel confident in their systems, it frees up emotional bandwidth to focus on what truly matters,” says Lopez-Perez. “Cybersecurity isn’t just about data protection; it’s about creating mental clarity by reducing uncertainties.”

For instance, imagine logging in without worrying about phishing emails — deceptive emails that attempt to trick recipients into revealing sensitive information — or compromised passwords. That level of predictability eliminates a key source of stress. Experts agree that effective cybersecurity reduces everyday worries, directly boosting mental well-being.

The impact of digital stress

Picture this scenario — you’re rushing through a busy day and accidentally click on a suspicious email link. That sinking feeling of panic takes over. Did you just expose sensitive data?

Situations like this highlight how digital insecurity is a constant source of anxiety. Multiply that stress for every cyber threat an individual might face, and the toll becomes clear.

However, proactive measures like multi-factor authentication, a security enhancement that requires users to provide two or more verification methods to access an account or application, and regular training decrease risks significantly. Knowing the systems you rely on are secure helps mitigate stress.

“Stress from digital insecurity is like background noise — constant and draining,” Lopez-Perez adds. “When you take control with proactive habits, you’re protecting not just data but your mental health.”

Small, intentional actions help create a sense of calm, he says, allowing you to focus on work and life with clarity.

Cybersecurity as self-care

Lopez-Perez recommends thinking of digital security habits as part of your self-care routine. Just as exercise builds physical resilience, cybersecurity strengthens mental preparedness. Creating unique passwords, recognizing phishing scams, and using password managers foster a sense of control over your digital world.

Tim Fruitman, an IT security analyst at Sharp HealthCare, explains, “Engaging in these simple practices not only protects data but builds confidence in the systems we rely on daily. It’s a small effort with a significant impact on security and peace of mind.” To create a healthier, safer digital routine to protect both your data and mental health:

• Use strong, unique passwords. Avoid reusing them and consider a password manager for simplicity.

• Enable two-factor authentication. It adds minimal effort while boosting security.

• Stay informed. Cybersecurity training helps you spot phishing and other social engineering tactics.

• Update software regularly. Don’t ignore reminders — they’re there to protect your systems.

“Cybersecurity is more than just a technical skill — it’s a mindset,” says Fruitman. “That sense of control brings peace of mind, improving emotional well-being and confidence.”

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