Digital Detox: How Unplugging Can Improve Mental Health

March 18, 2025

Digital Detox: How Unplugging Can Improve Mental Health

Verified By
KIMS-SUNSHINE
Specialist,
18 March, 2025

Digital Detox: How Unplugging Can Improve Mental Health Almost every one of us has a phone in our pocket, a laptop in the bag and probably a tab waiting to be picked up, once we get home and laze around. While it is understandable that everything happens online these days, it is also important to understand that however all-consuming it may seem, we still need to live our offline lives, as much as we try to live as our online personas. There is this constant itch to check notifications, know what other people are up to, what product is being launched right at this moment, because we have this FOMO (fear of missing out) on life. Some of us get so caught up on making reels and updating statuses, we forget to live and observe life normally, as it happens in front of us.

Signs You Need A Break From Screens And Social Media

Some common signs which are actually worrisome are as follows-

You have this urge to reply to texts or any message quickly. No breaks whatsoever. This can stress you out.
If you are always saying yes to work after hours, then that can get stressful.
If you keep doom scrolling for hours and hours and then wonder how time went by so fast, then you should stop.
If you get angry about missing out on some party or event or feel the need to be a huge people pleaser.
If you keep comparing what you have with what someone online has, then it is all downhill for you. You do know that Photoshop exists and it is used for this very reason?
If you are an impulsive shopper and notice a huge dent in your monthly finances, due to ‘I scroll and get cool deals online’, then you need to understand that they are personalised, and those ads will keep coming back. But you don’t have to keep buying.
If you have a hard time concentrating at work or complain of ‘brain fog’, then stay away from screens.
If you need to compulsively post about something, before actually taking part in or enjoying an event, then it is a cause for worry.
If you have headaches, neck pain and headaches because of constant screen use.

How Social Media Affects Mental Health And Anxiety?

Too much social media can leave you feeling depressed, or anxious or even angry- depending on how the circumstances present themselves. You may know that nice feeling when you are online, but it is caused by dopamine that your brain is producing. The effects of dopamine however wear away in a while. You can lose a lot of time just scrolling pointlessly, waste money on stuff or even end up comparing yourself to someone else, which can make you feel unnecessarily stressed and competitive.

Digital Detox Tips For Better Sleep And Well-Being

Much like sleep hygiene is a term being used all over, screen hygiene is also important. This means no screens after 10 PM every night. You can switch off notifications from applications on your phone, so you don’t get stressed out. You can also track how long you are online and use a timer to check your progress. Social media apps have been designed to encourage mindless scrolling these days, because the longer they keep you online, the more revenue they generate in multiple ways. We know that capitalism is everything, but why offer up your mental health and wellness, along with time and resources? You can instead go for a walk, join yoga or dance classes and get out of the house everyday for some time to get some fresh air.

Conclusion

The very act of going offline can leave us feeling naked at times, if we get too dependent on our phones. But, it can be very empowering. You get more time to socialise, actually read something, go out and hang out really with normal human beings like before and form meaningful connections with real people. Sure, you may chat with someone online but it will never be like walking to someone IRL. After all, not all of us can be influencers, though they too take a few weeks off every year as content creation and being online all the time can be stressful. So, let’s not mock the idea of a digital detox, because a screen can be just as addictive as a drink or a cigarette, or any other compulsive behaviours which we may be tempted to indulge in.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a digital detox, and why is it important?

It literally means you will not use any device or screen to alleviate boredom. This is a good thing as most of us spend hours working on our laptops or desktop systems, while also using a phone or a tab simultaneously. All this multitasking can stress the brain out a lot, leaving you functioning at subpar capacity.

How can unplugging from technology reduce stress and anxiety?

Unplugging from screens can mean you are less stressed and are able to focus more on what is happening in front of you. You also get to hang out with friends or family or whoever else you like and can engage with them better, helping you build lasting relationships.

How long should a digital detox last to see benefits?

If you can stay away from your phone and laptop for about 3 days or longer, then you should definitely begin to feel a lot more at ease. Day 1 will be the hardest, as it can almost feel like you are going through withdrawal (an adjustment period of sorts), but it should get better with time.

How do I set healthy boundaries with technology and social media?

If you love doom scrolling, then you may have noticed that it is designed to make you waste time. So, setting a timer when you use social media apps can be helpful. You can also use apps that need you to concentrate and not use your phone for a specific amount of time, so that you get particular rewards. You can also use your phone only at specific times in a day.

Will a digital detox help improve productivity and relationships?

You will definitely sleep better and not be as stressed. Since you are more present in front of someone, you can talk to them or make a better impression on them.