One of the many takeaways from Digifest 2026 for me was the focus on wellbeing.
It was encouraging to see the relationship between digital and wellbeing underpinning many of the conversations and sessions. Whether that was through keynote talks, panel discussions or interactive workshops, the event demonstrated how our own relationship with technology shapes our views, behaviours and ultimately our wellbeing.
Our relationship with technology
I had the pleasure of recording a podcast on day two. A key focus of the podcast is to explore the nuance of our relationship with technology.
In this podcast, Dan Owens, Digital Wellbeing Officer at Coleg y Cymoedd, gives a personal and refreshing take on the impacts technology has on our lives.
Although our relationship with technology is often complex, some of the key messages that I took from the conversation include:
- Technology has both positive and negative effects. On the one hand, it can enhance learning, offer alternative ways to access information, and help foster a sense of belonging. On the other hand, these benefits are often counterbalanced by risks such as addiction-like behaviours driven by design features that trigger dopamine responses, as well as increased stress and anxiety.
- Digital wellbeing is fundamentally about the relationship between people and technology. Digital can either support goals and opportunities or create distractions and barriers, depending on use.
- The impact of technology on wellbeing is shaped by our behaviours and choices. Factors, such as how we regulate screen time, our sleep habits, and how we engage with (or without) social media, all play a part.
- Improving digital wellbeing requires awareness, education, and reflective conversations, helping learners and staff understand their habits and develop more mindful, balanced use of digital tools.
- Effective approaches emphasise ongoing adaptation and collaboration, recognising that digital challenges evolve over time. Shared effort, consistent messaging, and engagement with learners, staff, and wider communities can all help to overcome challenges.
Join the digital wellbeing community
The community helps to bring together those with a passion for wellbeing. Through community, peers can learn from one another, share experiences, and stay connected to emerging trends.
If you have an interest in digital wellbeing and would like to connect with others across the sector, we’d love you to join us. You can do so by completing the Join the Digital Wellbeing Community form.
