Do you ever feel that your phone is controlling you rather than the other way round? You feel like the constant pinging of notifications, the urge of scrolling through feeds or the need to capture each moment for social media is slowly draining you of your peace of mind. You’re not the only one. In today’s hyper-connected world a digital detoxification is not just a luxury, but a necessity. Here’s how you can tell if it’s the right time to reset your device and why.
When was the last moment you sat with a friend and didn’t check your phone? When was the last time you felt truly present without being distracted by alerts? If these questions cause you to pause, your digital habits may be interfering in your real-life relationships. Kim Hertz, psychotherapist, says that social media time often leads to less face-toface interaction. She says that technology can take away our ability to be in the moment. While scrolling may feel like connection, in-person relationships are more meaningful.
According to the APA’s 2017 survey, 65% of Americans believe that digital detoxes are essential for mental health. Only 28% of Americans successfully complete a digital detox. This gap is not surprising, considering how deeply ingrained digital habits are. The benefits of unplugging, however, are too great to ignore.
It’s not necessary to be apprehensive when planning a digital detox. Start with small and flexible goals. Pam Skop, mental health counselor, recommends starting with 20 minutes screen-free before bed. As you adjust, increase the time spent away from screens. You can also set boundaries by turning off notifications or uninstalling addictive apps. Hertz says that the fewer distractions there are, the easier it will be to stick to a detox.
Plan ahead for longer detoxes like a weekend reset of 24 hours. Inform your family and friends that you are going offline. Use airplane mode on your phone or only use it for essentials. When traveling internationally, you can save money by not using roaming data and instead using Wi-Fi. Skop says that trying something new is liberating.
If you are still unsure if a detox is for you, look out for these signs. Do you compare yourself to others on the internet? Do you feel burned out from your phone use and unable to concentrate? Are you unable to focus during conversations or meals? These are all signs that you need to prioritize your health over constant connectivity.
Why wait? Unplugging doesn’t mean you’ll miss out on anything. It’s all about regaining your peace of mind. You’ll thank your future self for the clarity and presence that a digital detox brings.
