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Digital Allostatic Load

Meaning

Digital allostatic load is a conceptual extension of the physiological allostatic load, representing the cumulative, multisystem wear-and-tear on the body and mind resulting from chronic, excessive engagement with digital technologies and the continuous stream of information they deliver. This load is generated by persistent cognitive demands, light exposure disrupting circadian rhythm, and the psychological stress of perpetual connectivity, all of which chronically activate the neuroendocrine stress response. It is a modern contributor to dysregulation of the HPA axis.