Technology is both a blessing and a curse. Tech devices such as smartphones, televisions, computers, tablets, and social media sites, make our lives so much easier and better in many ways. But it can be stressful that people can’t imagine life without those tech devices. Read on and find out more about social media and mental health, and learn the signs that you might need a digital detox.
How social media affects mental health?
Excess tech use may be getting in the way of your mental wellness. Studies have shown that there are links between social media and mental health. In fact, social media use can lead to low quality sleep. It has associations with depression, anxiety, and feelings of isolation, particularly among heavy users. Psychologists have also learned that social media can trigger “compare and despair” feelings of envy, shame, and low self-esteem.
Signs that you need a digital detox
Having smart technology constantly at our fingertips has its advantages. But too much technology can have disadvantages when it comes to our health and well-being. Here are signs that you might need a digital detox:
- Feel like you have no time to yourself
- Spend more time than intended
- Experience urges to check
- Feel anxious or stressed out if you can’t find your phone
- Being afraid that you’ll miss something if you don’t keep checking your device
- Stare at your phone while in bed
- Panic when you can’t find your phone
- Spending longer and longer periods of time online
- Social media make you feel negative about your own life
- Keep your phone with you during meals
How to do a digital detox
Taking a break from technology not only frees up time, but has real mental health benefits. “Detoxing” from digital devices is often seen as a way to focus on real-life social interactions without distractions. Now let’s learn how to do a digital detox to unplug and recharge.
1. Limit your digital device usage
2. Pick a time to turn off your devices, and focus on spending an evening on realistic things such as yoga, hiking, talking with friends.
3. Turn off push notifications
4. Leave your phone outside the bedroom at night
5. Try a new activity or learn a new skill
