7 Tips For Dealing With Computer Stress and Frustration

Table of ContentsView AllTable of ContentsBe PreparedInvest In The BestBack up OftenGet Easy AnswersGet Reliable HelpKeep It ComfyPractice Stress Management

Table of ContentsView All

View All

Table of Contents

Be Prepared

Invest In The Best

Back up Often

Get Easy Answers

Get Reliable Help

Keep It Comfy

Practice Stress Management

We all want to smash our face into the keyboard in frustration from time to time. As our lifestyles become increasingly dependent on technology—with the growing popularity of online banking, telecommuting, and social media amongst everyone from the very young to the very old—it’s inevitable that things can and will go wrong.

At a GlanceWhether it’s a technical issue, frustration from dealing with unhelpful customer support, or the stress that comes with social media and everything that comes with it, the Internet can be a frustrating place, no matter what device you use to access it.The next time digital stress is about to derail your day and you find yourself ready to throw your phone, tablet, or computer across the room, take a deep breath or go for a walk to help you de-stress. You’ll feel refreshed, renewed, and ready to face your tech issue head-on.

At a Glance

Whether it’s a technical issue, frustration from dealing with unhelpful customer support, or the stress that comes with social media and everything that comes with it, the Internet can be a frustrating place, no matter what device you use to access it.The next time digital stress is about to derail your day and you find yourself ready to throw your phone, tablet, or computer across the room, take a deep breath or go for a walk to help you de-stress. You’ll feel refreshed, renewed, and ready to face your tech issue head-on.

The next time digital stress is about to derail your day and you find yourself ready to throw your phone, tablet, or computer across the room, take a deep breath or go for a walk to help you de-stress. You’ll feel refreshed, renewed, and ready to face your tech issue head-on.

Another important part of being prepared is to have the right frame of mind: realize that there’s a lot of potential for error when working with computers, and expect a few bumps in the road.Perfectionistsespecially may beat themselves up over unexpected computer difficulties, but accepting that the road may inevitably have a few bumps (and knowing how to navigate those bumps) can keep your blood pressure down.

When you’re able to choose your equipment (i.e., it’s not software that your company chooses for you), it’s a good idea to invest in the best (not just the cheapest) software and hardware. Just like having a comfortable sleeping situation is important for the third of your life that you spend in bed, newer and faster is better in terms of saving time and hassle, especially for those who use their computers often, which now includes the majority of us. You’re reading this onsomekind of digital device, after all.

If you don’t already have this worked into your routine, it’s vital that you start backing up your files regularly (we recommend once a week), so that if you run into major difficulties, you don’t lose much of your precious work. Or better yet, set your computer up to backup automatically! It’s a one-time effort that will save you plenty of work in the future, and provide you with peace of mind.

There are a number of resources that can help you learn how toback up your dataif you aren’t sure. Specifically, your computer’s help and support resources should provide instructions for how to back up your specific device.

Much of the computer stress that results from dealing with technological problems stems from not understanding how to fix problems. Fortunately, you can get quick and easy advice online. Find a website that you trust, that’s devoted to sharing reliable information on PC Support and Macs, where you can find answers and support. Having information and support is part of being prepared.

Here are some of the top online resources for getting help with your computer:

If you’ve got a problem with your computer, chances are many other people have had the same problem, and asked the same questions you have. Know that you’re not alone, but also that the answers are out there if you know where to look.

This is another part of your preparedness safety net. Sometimes it’s difficult to use tech support over the phone or online because you don’t know what you’re dealing with, don’t understand the terms used, or are basically stumped about the whole process. One resource we’ve found that can be really helpful in this situation is a site calledsupport.com.

They can access your computer remotely, saving you from having to take it anywhere, interpret the problem yourself, or bug your family or friends to help you fix your computer—again! They’re relatively inexpensive and very user-friendly: you can get help immediately, free diagnosis, guaranteed work, and the people who help you are friendly and understanding (rather than condescending or difficult to communicate with).

We often forget that being physically uncomfortable can add quite a bit to our stress levels. That’s why it’s important to keep ergonomics in mind when setting up your computer station, as well as other factors like background noise level, privacy, and even lighting.

Part of the intensity of computer stress involves the built-up strain of a tense body. If you can take a few minutes and the problem is not time-sensitive, take time for somedeep breathingor ashort walkto get some fresh air. You will find yourself more relaxed and able to handle the potential frustration of the occasional inevitable computer mishap.

Focusing on what is in our control—rather than what isn’t working—can also help ease frustration and allow better problem solving. Also, don’t forget tomaintain relationshipsand take time to connect with people in real life to avoid feeling isolated, which also adds to stress.

Meet Our Review Board

Share Feedback

Was this page helpful?Thanks for your feedback!What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit

Was this page helpful?

Thanks for your feedback!

What is your feedback?HelpfulReport an ErrorOtherSubmit

What is your feedback?

At a Glance#

At a Glance