Blog / May 16, 2023
Digital Detox
Unplugging for Mental Wellness and Balance

It’s no secret that the proliferation of digital devices—mobile phones, computers, tablets, and more—has changed the way we interact with one another. But it’s not just changing how we talk to each other; it’s changing how we think. We’re seeing evidence of this everywhere: in the increase of mental health problems among children who grow up with smartphones (and later laptops), in the rise of addictive behavior from people who can’t tear themselves away from their screens long enough to eat or sleep (or even go to work). And then there are those studies about how excessive screen time can have negative health impacts such as higher rates of anxiety, depression and even musculoskeletal problems (Ratdke et al) among people who spend too much time on their devices.
In short: unplugging is good for your mind and body.
What is a digital detox?
A digital detox is a period of time when you avoid technology. It can be for a few hours or a few days, depending on what your goals are. This can include watching less tv, not playing video games, spending less time on your laptop or even just certain apps on your phone.
Why should I UNPLUG?
You should unplug because it can help you focus on what matters most. Unplugging also helps you reconnect with family and friends by removing distractions that get in the way of face-to-face conversations. It can also reduce stress, anxiety and depression by giving us time away from our busy lives where we are constantly bombarded with information from various sources (e-mail alerts, text messages).
How do I know when it’s time to unplug?
If you’re feeling like your digital devices are controlling you, if they are taking up too much of your time and energy and attention, then it’s probably time to unplug.
If you find yourself feeling anxious or depressed because of the way that technology is affecting your life–if it seems like the only way to escape from those feelings is by using more technology–then it’s probably time to unplug.
If getting enough sleep has become difficult for any reason (for example: staying up late watching Netflix or playing video games), then it might be worth considering whether or not this could be related to how much time and energy is being spent on digital devices instead of sleeping at night.
If you’re spending more time texting your friends or talking through DMs even when they live nearby and you could connect with them face to face.
How can I unplug without losing out on work or school obligations?
If you’re looking to unplug without losing out on work or school obligations, there are a few things that can help:
- -Use a timer to limit how long you spend on your digital devices. You’ll be surprised at how much more productive it makes you.
- – Unplug during certain times of day. Leave your phone on Do Not Disturb and out of sight during the work day, fall asleep with it in a different room (or turn it off), or make a stack of them on the kitchen table during group dinners.
- -Turn off notifications so that they aren’t distracting from whatever task at hand needs attention (and also so that people don’t call/text/email constantly).
- – Take breaks from social media, even if just for an hour each day so that when we come back refreshed with new ideas and perspectives we’re ready to tackle whatever comes next.
How can I create healthier boundaries when it comes to social media and other forms of technology?
If you find yourself feeling anxious or depressed after using social media, it’s time to take a step back. To help create healthier boundaries when it comes to social media and other forms of technology, try implementing the following strategies:
- – Use a social media diet. You may want to limit your time on social media as much as possible–or at least set rules for yourself regarding when you can use certain platforms. For example, maybe decide that no matter what, no device will be used during meals or family time.
- – Be more mindful when using social media in general; don’t just scroll through without really engaging with the content or people around you – go ahead and share that cat video with the person sitting next to you. Setting limits like these helps ensure that we’re not spending too much time staring into screens alone instead of interacting with others around us physically — which ultimately leads back towards better mental health overall because we’re less likely feel isolated due to lack thereof.
It’s possible to improve your mental health by setting reasonable limits around how much time you spend on digital devices.
Setting boundaries and goals is a good first step, but it’s also important to consider what else might help you achieve those goals.
Here are some things that can help:
- – Sleep. Getting enough quality sleep is essential for good health and mental well-being, so make sure to get enough hours each night! If you’re having trouble sleeping, try taking a warm bath before bedtime or listening to music with calming lyrics. Also avoid looking at electronic devices at least an hour before sleeping – blue light can keep you awake
- – Exercise. Physical activity gives us energy while helping us feel better about ourselves–and exercise has been shown to improve mood and reduce stress levels as well! If there isn’t time in your schedule right now for regular workouts at the gym or yoga class every morning before work then start small by taking an afternoon walk with friends instead of sitting at home watching Netflix.
Conclusion
We know it can be hard to unplug, yet we believe that it’s so worth it. After all, our phones and other devices can be great tools when used in moderation. The key is finding ways to balance digital life with real life so that neither one takes over our attention or mental health. That might mean setting limits on how much time you spend on social media each day or even turning off notifications from certain apps when you need a break from them all together! Whatever approach works best for you–whether it’s turning off notifications or just limiting yourself from checking email at night when everyone else is asleep–we hope this article has helped show why unplugging may be necessary for your better mental health.