Without even realising, social media is easily one of the most draining and time-consuming factors. A person may just click on a social media platform with the intention of spending less than 15 minutes on it. The next thing you know, you have allowed social media to consume two hours of your time.
Sometimes these platforms are there for a useful purpose such as work or a side hustle that you monetize. For such reasons then we find ourselves being tied to them and can’t take a break from them as often as we would like to.
Why should I detox from social media
Greatist – media company in health for healthy-minded millennials – states that social media is not good for one’s mental health. it further states that social media can create envy and the fear of missing out for many individuals, which research has linked to depression and anxiety.
Leah Rockwell, a licensed professional counselor, suggests that addiction that comes with the validation of receiving likes, views, follows, and comments can activate the same part of the brain as other addictive behaviors do.
Why should I detox now
The new year is often a time when people are ready to start afresh, reflect and reset. Staying away from social media will assist towards helping your focus shift to much more important things such as your physical and mental health. Leah further shares that if social media often makes you feel sad or down then stepping away might be quite beneficial for you. Starting off the new year with negative feelings that are caused by what you choose to consume on social media may have an effect on how you feel about yourself and set the tone for the rest of the year. Take charge and take a social media break for a bit.
Are there signs that I need a social media detox
Cleveland Health Clinic – non-profit academic medical center – suggests when you begin to feel inadequate followed by separation anxiety from social media, then these are the signs that you are due for a social media detox. The constant obsession of having to post everything before being present and living in the moment is also one of the signs. Cleveland Health Clinic furthers state those who reach out for their phone before going to bed and after waking up should take a much-needed break.
Benefits of a detox
- Less anxiety
- Mood booster.
- Better quality sleep
- Healthy social interactions.
Also see: Signs and symptoms of suicidal behaviours
