Take a moment and think about it
- What is your usual screen time?
- When was the last time you explored digital detox?
- How often do you feel strain in the eyes due to screen time?
- When you are away from your phone, how do you feel?
The intention of the above questions is to reflect upon the need for digital detox in today’s day and age. Just like multiple tabs are open on our phone these days, similarly, multiple mental efforts are also required to constantly stay updated through gadgets.
What Is a Digital Detox and Why Is It Important?
Digital detox can be explained as creating a disconnection from devices such as phones and laptops for a specific period of time. Social media applications such as Facebook, Instagram and YouTube may consume a lot of time in an individual’s daily routine. A digital detox allows one to take a break from all these habits and experience a sense of connection in the offline world. Reducing screen time for mental health improvement is becoming a topic of interest these days.
Why a Digital Detox Is Essential for Mental Clarity
Benefits of digital detox can include:
- Improved attention span and ability to focus
- Improved functioning of the working memory
- Enhancement of creativity and problem-solving skills
- Emotion regulation and digital detox for stress relief
The Negative Effects of Constant Screen Time
Constant screen time can have a negative impact on one’s overall well-being in the following ways:
- Increase stress level
- Chances of smartphone addiction
- Decreased offline human connection
Mental and Emotional Exhaustion
Imagine someone being constantly vigilant because of when and what the next notification may lead to! Such constant apprehensiveness can make one feel emotionally and mentally exhausted.
Impact on Sleep and Productivity
- Decreased sleep quality
- Difficulty falling asleep
- Reduced productivity level
Social Media and Information Overload
With multiple tabs open on a phone, there can be information overload for an individual, making it difficult to process and retain information. For example, imagine someone who is sending professional mail on one application, checking social media for entertainment on another application and connecting with family via a third application. While this may seem like multi-tasking, it can also lead to reduced cognitive abilities.
Practical Digital Detox Tips for Mental Clarity
You can try to take control of your life instead of letting the digital screen control it using a lot of practical strategies that help you develop your own digital detox program. Some of the many digital detox tips are mentioned below.
Set Screen Time Limits
- Application usage limit can be set
- The overall device usage limit can be set
- Reminders can help in adherence
Schedule Regular Tech-Free Time
Tech-free time can be set in the following ways:
- After a meal try to avoid digital use
- Before falling asleep, explore other habits apart from scrolling
- Setting spaces in the house which are tech-free zones
Engage in Offline Activities
Offline activities can include:
- Sports – Badminton, cricket, football, etc
- Board games – Ludo, Monopoly, Snakes and Ladder,s etc
- Puzzles – Sudoku, word puzzles, riddles
- Nature – Walking, sky watching, bird watching, etc
- Socialisation – Offline meet-up with friends, family, etc
Disconnect from Social Media
Taking one step at a time, one can gradually work on reducing screen time for mental health betterment. This can also involve disconnecting from social media in the following ways:
- Deleting unnecessary social media applications
- Reflecting on which application consumed the maximum time
- Limiting the time usage, especially when it is harming well-being
Benefits of a Digital Detox for Mental Health
There are several benefits of digital detox. One can gradually observe changes in overall functioning as one tries to implement the digital detox tips.
Reduced Stress and Anxiety
- Decreased stress levels and increased self-reflection can be observed
- Decreased social comparison may lead to decreased anxiety
- An enhancement in mood can also be observed as one takes a digital break
Improved Focus and Productivity
- As the continuous flow of information pauses, one can get a relaxing break
- Cognitive abilities can improve, thereby leading to better focus and memory
- One might also experience a higher productivity level as mindless scrolling decreases
Enhanced Emotional Well-Being
Digital detox can also lead to improvement in the following ways:
- Higher self-awareness
- Better emotion regulation
- Stress and anxiety reduction
How to Maintain Your Digital Detox Routine
It might be very difficult to completely avoid the digital world in today’s time. A balanced and mindful use of the digital world is encouraged, such that one can experience the benefits without compromising one’s health.
Start Small and Build Habits
- Even minimising a few minutes of usage can be a wonderful start!
- Building healthier habits by exploring offline engaging activities
- Trying to maintain consistency and celebrating victories is important
Use Technology Mindfully
Mindful use of technology can be done by being aware of how the usage is influencing and acknowledging if there are any concerns. Acceptance can help in trying to work on the concerns by becoming more mindful of one’s digital consumption.
Involve Others in Your Detox
Others can be involved in the digital detox in the following ways:
- Involving friends and family members to alert one in case of increased digital use
- Joining a support group to learn others’ similar journeys and share one’s own lessons
- Seeking a psychologist’s support for goal charting and support
Conclusion
If you are looking for a premium mental health center then Athena Luxus is the right place for you. Here you can find treatment for diverse addictions and mental health disorders. For someone who is embarking on the journey of reducing screen time for digital detox, our experts can offer professional guidance.
Call us today at 9718921212 or email us your concerns at customercare@athenabhs.com and we shall try our best to assist your mental wellness journey!
Frequently Asked Questions
Ques 1 – What is a digital detox, and why is it important for mental clarity?
Ans 1 – Digital detox can be understood as a particular set time frame during which one does not engage digitally or use any gadgets to feel more aware of oneself and offline surroundings.
Ques 2 – How can I reduce screen time without feeling disconnected?
Ans 2 – You can try reducing screen time through the following ways:
- Become aware of current screen time
- Set a realistic goal as to how much you want to reduce it
- Use reminders to become more mindful of screen usage
Ques 3 – How often should I take a digital detox?
Ans 3 – You can start your personalised digital detox program as per your needs, schedule, convenience and goals.
Ques 4 – Can a digital detox improve my sleep and reduce stress?
Ans 4 – Yes, digital detox for stress relief is becoming increasingly popular and can help with sleep concerns as well.
Ques 5 – What are the long-term benefits of regular digital detox sessions?
Ans 5 – Digital detox, if done regularly, can help one become more connected with oneself and offline surroundings, give one a chance to explore offline hobbies and reduce the chances of developing mental and physical health problems due to persistent digital use.
