Social media is everywhere. We use it to communicate with friends, post pictures, and learn what’s happening worldwide. Though it can be fun and informative, excessive time spent on social media can damage your mental health.
How Social Media Impacts Your Mental Health
Makes You Compare Yourself to Others
We see the highlights of people’s lives on social media. Instead, we are shown images of flawless lives and blissful times. This can leave us feeling like our lives are not good enough.
Causes Stress and Anxiety
Constant notifications and the need to answer immediately can make us feel stressed. When we see others having fun without us, we may also feel excluded.
Disrupts Sleep
Most people scroll through social media at night. This lights up the brain and complicates falling asleep.
Can Lead to Addiction
It’s easy to spend hours scrolling. Before we know it, we’ve lost time that could have been better spent.
5 Ways to Detox from Social Media
And if social media is troubling your mental health, a detox can help. Here are five easy steps to help you cut down on your screen time:
Set Time Limits
Phone settings or apps can limit the amount of time you use social media each day. Try cutting back slowly, like 30 minutes less per day, and notice how you feel.
Turn Off Notifications
Notifications serve as distractions. Deactivate them to fight off the impulse to check your phone every few minutes.
Designate No-Phone Zones
Designate an area of your home where you don’t touch your phone. For instance: no phones at dinner or in bed.
Replace Scrolling with Hobbies
Utilize your spare time in a new way. Read a book, paint, take a walk, or spend time with friends and family.
Take a break from social media
Delete apps for a week or month. It can help you reset and prioritize your life elsewhere.
Final Thoughts
Social media can be an excellent tool, but one must know how to use it wisely. Spending too much time online can negatively impact your mental health. Doing a detox at small levels can translate to feeling happier and more goal-oriented. Implement these tips and notice how they change your life.