Social media can be a great way to connect with those around you, but with the constant exposure to others come some possible side effects. As has been said before, comparison is the thief of joy, and when people present the best parts of their lives on social media, it can result in feeling “less-than”.
According to the study Understanding Links Between Social Media Use, Sleep, and Mental Health: Recent Progress and Current Challenge, people who use social media, particularly at night, usually sleep later, sleep less, and sleep worse. The stimulation of the brain by using social media and the social implications of FOMO can result in reduced sleep. Lack of sleep can result in a multitude of health problems, including anxiety, an inability to think, poor memory, heart problems, and metabolism issues in the long term.
Another study conducted by the National Center for Biotechnology Information found a clear link in young adults aged 19 to 32 between social media usage and increased anxiety and depression.
Overall, social media moderation is the key. There are still many benefits to using social media, but the side effects of overuse and the mindset it can put you in can still be harmful to your mental health.
What is a Digital Detox?
A digital detox is a period of time to step away from devices and social media that have been ingrained into our daily routine.
The purpose of a digital detox is to allow ourselves to really experience life and the beauty it holds without a screen in our faces to distract us from it. Although social media makes it easy to connect with others, we need to relearn how to reconnect with individuals in a face-to-face format. In this day and age it is hard to disconnect from the constant flow of information, notifications, and online activities, allowing for a break from the digital world. This can include avoiding the use of smartphones, computers, tablets, social media platforms, and other digital devices.
A digital detox can help create healthier relationships with technology, promote mental well-being, and foster more meaningful connections with the physical world and people around us. While the duration of a digital detox can vary, it is generally seen as a temporary break rather than a permanent lifestyle change.
Do You Need a Digital Detox?
Consider embracing a digital detox if you find yourself nodding along with one or more items on this checklist:
Constant Phone Checking:
If you find yourself compulsively checking your phone, even in situations where it's not necessary, it might be a sign that a digital detox is needed.
FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) on Social Media:
Feeling a constant need to check social media to stay updated on what others are doing can indicate that your digital habits are affecting your peace of mind.
Decreased Productivity & Motivation:
If you notice a decline in your ability to stay focused on tasks and a lack of motivation, it may be time to take a break from digital distractions.
Physical Symptoms:
Increased headaches, eye strain, and poor posture as a result of excessive screen time are clear signals that your body is impacted by your digital habits.
Neglecting Real-Life Connections:
Choosing to be on your phone rather than engaging with people around you may indicate that your digital activities are taking precedence over meaningful real-life connections.
Stress Over Social Media Metrics:
Feeling anxious or stressed about the number of likes, comments, or views on your social media posts suggests that your self-worth might be tied to online validation.
Sleep Disruption:
If your digital habits, such as late-night scrolling, are interfering with your sleep patterns, it's a strong indicator that a digital detox could positively impact your overall well-being.
Top 5 Activities for a Digital Free Time
Art and Creativity:
Draw or paint.
Start a DIY craft project.
Learn a musical instrument.
Try cooking or baking.
Exercise:
Practice yoga or meditation.
Attend a fitness class.
Go for a run or do a workout.
Mindfulness and Relaxation:
Practice deep breathing exercises.
Try meditation or mindfulness.
Take a relaxing bath.
Try journaling.
Pick up a physical book, magazine, or newspaper.
Socializing:
Plan a face-to-face meetup with friends or family.
Host a game night or dinner party.
Attend local community events.
Volunteering:
Dedicate time to a local charity or community service.
Join a volunteer group.
Benefits:
A decrease in stress and anxiety, boost in mood, better mental health, and the ability to enjoy the world around you
Better sleep: Melatonin (the hormone that makes you sleepy) is released in response to darkness (not on your phone)
More time for hobbies and skills and the ability to be more intentional with your time
Improved eating habits: scrolling or binge-watching can lead to mindless snacking and consuming more calories than necessary
Enhanced relationships and better social skills provide opportunities for real-world interactions rather than being distracted by others online
HOW TO: Digital Detox:
