Social media has become such an integral part of our daily lives. From scrolling through Instagram feeds to checking Facebook notifications, we are constantly connected to the digital world.

While social media has its benefits, it can also have a negative impact on our mental wellness.

Living in the digital age, It’s easy to see the successes and achievements of others and It can leave you in a constant state of comparison, a losing battle that leaves you numb and jaded at the end of the interaction.

As a working professional, you might already be struggling to balance your work and personal life, and with social media added to the mix, it’s a recipe for a mental breakdown.

If you’re feeling overwhelmed and stressed out, it might be time to consider detoxing from social media.

In this article, we’ll explore the harmful effects of digital overload on our mental wellbeing, the benefits of digital detox, and strategies for unplugging and unwinding for mental clarity.

What is Digital Detox?

“Digital detox” is a term used to describe a period of time during which a person refrains from using electronic devices such as smartphones or computers. It is regarded as an opportunity to reduce stress or focus on social interaction in the physical world.

In today’s digital age, we are constantly connected to the digital world, which can lead to digital overload. Wow, that’s a lot of digital.

With so many uncertainties that we already have to deal with in our professional careers, do we really want to let social media sway our life choices and negatively impact our mental health in the process?

By taking a break from technology, we can improve our mental clarity, increase productivity, and perhaps even help you reconnect with your loved ones. 

Digital detox can take many forms, from a complete break from technology to setting boundaries and creating tech-free zones.

Is It Good To Detox From Social Media?

Being constantly connected to the digital world is never a good thing. It can lead to digital overload and negatively impact our mental health in the long run.

Cases of doxing, cyber-bullying, and other such terms are more prevalent today than ever before. If you’re a millennial baby, can you even recall if these terms were a thing in the 90s to 2000s? Probably not, because social media wasn’t as alive as it is today.

While bullying already existed back then, the social media of today have made it easier for negativity to spread like wildfire.

Not to downplay the benefits and great things that the internet and social media have allowed us to do, but digital detoxing is definitely necessary now more than ever.

It’s important to take a break from technology and focus on real-life social interactions without distractions. By forgoing digital devices, at least temporarily, you can let go of the stress that stems from this constant connectivity.

Introverts can probably understand how much this feeling can sometimes feel very suffocating, and thankfully for us, the need to retract from social media comes a little bit more naturally.

So from the looks of it, detoxing from social media can only do you more good than harm.

The Harmful Effects of Digital Overload on Mental Wellness

I get it. These platforms can be fun and useful, but they can also have various negative impact on your overall health and well-being that you need to question, “Is it really worth all of these problems?”

In this section, we will explore some of the harmful effects of digital overload, which is the state of being overwhelmed by too much information and stimulation from digital devices.

1. Anxiety and Stress

Social media can make us feel anxious and stressed, especially when we compare ourselves to others, worry about missing out, or face online harassment. Studies have shown that high levels of social media use are associated with increased levels of anxiety and stress.

On one hand as working professionals, social media can indeed help us stay connected with our colleagues, clients, and industry trends.

On the other hand, social media can also expose us to unrealistic expectations, like that social media “friend” you have who seem to be living their best life traveling for work, or even that influencer who seems to be sharing the fancy gadgets they get day in and day out.

The thing about social media is, anyone can post anything they want and unfortunately, it’s easy for you to make comparisons to your own life.

Sometimes if you jump into the comments section of the content on these platforms, you’ll be exposed to so much negative feedback and comments, It’s insane.

Not to mention the sheer amount of “gurus” and people trying their best to promote their products and give you “informational content” all the time. At some point, it becomes a bit too much and you’ll start to suffer from information overload.

These factors can increase your anxiety and stress levels, which can in turn affect your performance, productivity, and overall well-being.

2. Sleep Disruption

I know we have all been there, lying on our beds trying to sleep and the next thing you know, your hand reaches out for your phone and before you know it, you’ve started diving into the rabbit hole of endless scrolling through social media along with your restful sleep for that night.

It goes without saying that social media can interfere with our sleep quality and quantity, especially when we use it before bedtime or keep our devices in our bedroom.

The blue light emitted by screens can suppress the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates our sleep cycle.

I mean, the phone can be kept in the same room as you but we both know that most people lack the self-control to make better decisions like not using your phone before bed.

It’s tough and sometimes just so tempting and irresistible, but you’ve got to practice your self-awareness and catch yourself in these situations.

You need to make your choice to either have a good rest or suffer through the next day due to the lack of sleep. There’s no going around this. It’s a simple cause and effect situation.

3. Reduced Attention Span

Social media can reduce our ability to focus and concentrate, especially when we multitask or switch between different apps. The constant stream of information and stimuli can also overload our brain and make it harder to process and retain information.

And if you think about it, we’re all so used to short form video content and I fear that It only encourages our desire for instant gratification in our daily lives.

Studies have actually found that heavy social media users have lower attention spans than light users.

4. Social Isolation

Social media can make us feel lonely and isolated, especially when we use it as a substitute for real-life interactions.

I think it’s great that it helps us stay in touch with our family and friends, but It can create a false sense of connection and intimacy. Studies have shown that spending more time on social media can increase feelings of loneliness and social isolation .

The Benefits of Detoxing from Social Media

Have you ever felt like your brain’s all fuzzy from too much screen time after scrolling for hours on end? It happens to the best of us. If that’s not a clear sign that you need to take a break away from the screen, I don’t know what is.

This is where digital detox comes in because it feels like you’re consciously hitting the reset button. Less screen time means less mental mess and you’re likely going to give your brain some much-needed space to breathe.

Here are some of the benefits of digital detox that you’re already probably aware of but if you need more convincing that you need to practice this, then read on.

1. Improved mental wellness

First up, improving your overall mental wellness. Cutting down on the junk that we usually spend our screen time on is like ditching a bad habit.

Suddenly, you’re feeling good about yourself without the constant comparison and negativity that seems to plague the comments on most platforms these days.

It’s like turning down the negativity volume, and you’re able to see and experience other things in life better.

2. Increased productivity

We all know this but we somehow wonder why we are still going with the excuse of “not having enough time” to do things. Well, maybe now is your chance to do a little digital detox and lessen your screen time.

Ultimately, less screen time means fewer distractions and your to-do list suddenly becomes way less scary because you’re able to get more daily tasks checked off your list.

3. Better sleep quality

I know for a fact that you have probably stayed up late scrolling through stuff online which, half of the time is probably not even doing you any good.

We’ve all been there.

So cut your screen time before bed and give your brain a break and the chance to recognize that you want to sleep. The more calm you are before bed, the faster you’ll be catching Zs.

4. Spending time with loved ones

Alright, let’s talk about the golden benefit of a digital detox – spending real, uninterrupted time with the people who matter. When you put those screens aside, something amazing happens. Suddenly, you’re not just physically present; you’re mentally present too.

Think about it – no pings, no notifications stealing your attention. You’re not sneaking glances at your phone; you’re actually looking at the people around you.

It’s like breaking free from a tech-induced bubble and stepping into the real world.

If you notice how conversations change when phones are out of the picture, It’s like you’re not just exchanging words, you’re sharing experiences, laughter, stories, and just a genuine connection with your loved ones.

It feels refreshing and the perfect way to strengthen your relationships.

Now, this doesn’t mean you need to plan extravagant activities. It could be as simple as a family dinner without phones at the table or an afternoon at the park.

The key is to be present – fully there, in the moment.

A digital detox nudges you to rediscover the joy of face-to-face interactions. Remember these moments – the laughter, the stories, the shared silence – they’re the real treasures of life.

Strategies for Digital Detox

Detoxing from social media isn’t about going off the grid permanently; it’s about finding a healthy balance. So, let’s explore some simple yet effective strategies to kick off your digital detox journey. No fancy tech jargon, just real tips for a happier and clearer mind.

1. Screen detox

Don’t you feel like sometimes, the constant glow from your phone screen makes your eyes tired? Then I think it’s time to give your eyes and mind a breather. Designate specific times to check your phone or switch off notifications for a while.

You don’t have to cut things off completely. You need to practice mindfulness here and realize It’s about choosing when to let the screen steal your attention.

2. Setting Boundaries

Maybe you feel like your phone is that clingy friend who just won’t leave you alone and wants to be with you everywhere all the time? Perhaps It’s time to set some boundaries.

Decide when your phone should be used and when it’s off limits. It’s like telling your phone, “Hey, I’ll catch up with you later. I’ve got some real-life stuff to do now.

3. Creating tech-free zones

If you need something that would complement setting boundaries when it comes to using your phones, then maybe you need to carve out spaces in your home or moments in your life where screens are a no-go.

For example, it can be the bedroom, the study room or maybe even dinnertime where ever that may be. Having tech-free zones can help you escape the digital noise and just be present.

Setting up these spaces matter to create these moments of peace that would come more naturally as it becomes a part of your daily lifestyle.

Soon, you may even realize that you actually prefer enjoying these moments or these spaces without that constant desire to hop on the phone and scroll through social media.

4. 7 Days Digital Detox Challenge

Set a goal – maybe spend a day without social media – and see how it feels. It’s not about being extreme. See what a day would feel like without tuning in to any of the social platforms.

You’ll realize that only you have the power to decide when you can log in and when you should log out.

Without further ado, here’s a free 7-day Digital Detox Challenge that you can try out for a week. I was thinking of creating a 30 day one, but I think it always pays to start slow and steady.

Feel free to swipe this challenge for yourself, share it on your socials and pin it on Pinterest!

Day 1: No Social Media for the Entire Day

The challenge kicks off with a bang – a full day without social media. Yes, you read that right! Give those scrolling thumbs a break.

This is your chance to experience a day without the constant buzz of updates and likes. How will you spend your time when you’re not lost in the social media sea? It’s time to find out.

Day 2: Designate Specific Phone-Free Hours

Now that you’ve survived a day without social media, let’s turn the focus to your phone. Pick specific hours when your phone takes a backseat.

Maybe it’s the first hour after waking up or the last hour before bedtime. This challenge is about creating intentional moments of screen-free bliss.

Day 3: Turn Off Notifications for a Day

Ding! Buzz! Ping! The sounds of constant notifications can be overwhelming. Day 3 is all about turning off those annoying notifications. Imagine a day where your phone isn’t dictating your attention with every notification.

It’s time to reclaim your focus and decide when you’ll check your updates.

Day 4: Create a Tech-Free Zone at Home

Your home should be a sanctuary, not a tech battleground. Choose a specific area – maybe the dining table or your bedroom – where screens are a no-go.

Creating a tech-free zone is about establishing little havens of peace where you can connect with the real world.

Day 5: Go for a Walk Without Your Phone

Day 5 is a physical challenge. Lace up those shoes, step outside, and leave your phone behind. A walk without screens is like a journey into simplicity.

Notice the world around you, feel the breeze, and let your mind wander without the distraction of a glowing rectangle.

Day 6: Have a Device-Free Meal

Meal time is not screen time. Challenge yourself to a device-free meal time. Taste your food, engage in conversation, and savor the moment without the digital backdrop.

Talk to your loved ones and find out how their day went. It’s a small but impactful step toward mindful eating and mindful living.

Day 7: Spend an Entire Evening Offline

As we wrap up the challenge, It’s time to go big. An entire evening without screens – that means no TV, no laptop, and definitely no phone.

Use this time to engage in activities that don’t involve screens. Maybe you’ll even rediscover your hobby or find activities that you can do with your loved ones.

It’s a powerful way to cap off your week of digital detox.

Reclaim Your Time and Mind Back From Social Media

Detoxing from social media isn’t just about putting down your phone; it’s about picking up your life. Sure, it’s not always easy. We’re wired to be connected 24/7.

A digital detox isn’t a cure-all, but take small steps and you might find that doing so can lead to big changes.

So take the plunge.

Detox for a day, a week, or heck, make it a lifestyle. Find your balance, embrace the quiet moments and real connections, and the simplicity of just being.

You’ve got this!