New research from Kent-based ultrafast broadband provider Trooli reveals that Millennials are suffering more negative effects from technology than any other generation — even though they believe they are in control of their digital lives. The study, which investigated the impact of technology on mental health across the UK, highlights both the reliance and the strain modern devices place on everyday life.
Half of all Brits said they depend on technology to feel more connected with friends, family, and loved ones. Around a third (32%) turn to tech to boost their self-esteem, while nearly one in six (16%) reported feeling isolated due to a lack of digital skills. However, Millennials stood out as the most vulnerable, with almost half (49%) admitting they rely on technology to feel better about themselves. This is higher than Gen Z — the most digitally native generation — who reported 44%. Millennials also experienced some of the highest levels of isolation caused by poor tech skills, tied with Gen Z at 25%.
Despite the challenges, Millennials are the most confident in their digital habits. Over three-quarters (76%) believe they have a healthy relationship with technology, and 79% feel in control of their usage — far higher than older generations. In contrast, fewer than half (47%) of adults over 60 felt their relationship with technology was healthy, even though they are the least likely to experience negative mental health impacts from tech.
Andy Conibere, CEO of Trooli, said: “Technology brings incredible benefits. Ultrafast broadband enables us to work remotely, learn online, stay in touch with loved ones, and enjoy streaming entertainment seamlessly. But it also comes with challenges — Millennials in particular are experiencing poor digital wellbeing, often without realising it. Simple steps, such as taking regular screen breaks or limiting time on certain apps, can make a huge difference to how technology impacts mental health.”
Trooli, which began in the early 2000s in Kent, has always been driven by a mission to close the digital divide and make reliable broadband accessible to everyone. “When we started, we wanted to avoid the limitations of traditional green street cabinets and outdated copper wiring, providing full fibre broadband to under-served rural communities,” added Conibere. “Fast, reliable connectivity is no longer a luxury — it’s a necessity for work, education, and social connection.”
The company has expanded its services from Kent to thousands of homes across East Anglia, the South and South East of England, and parts of Scotland. Trooli’s technology is designed to deliver ultrafast, reliable broadband right into people’s homes. Equipped with Wi-Fi 6 routers, the service provides synchronous upload and download speeds, better performance in dense multi-user environments, and extended battery life for connected devices. For larger or older properties where signals can be blocked by walls or building materials, Trooli Wi-Fi Plus offers enhanced coverage, reducing dead spots and ensuring every device can benefit from the full potential of full fibre broadband.
Conibere added: “The same broadband that powers entertainment and work also helps support digital wellbeing. By giving people the tools to control their technology, we can make sure it’s a force for good rather than a source of stress.”
The findings underline the importance of both awareness and access. While Millennials may feel in control of their technology, the research shows that reliance comes with real consequences. Ensuring households are equipped with robust broadband and in-home technology, like Trooli’s Wi-Fi 6 routers, can empower individuals to engage with the digital world safely and healthily.
