Hello Readers,
In an era dominated by screens and digital devices, our lives have
become tangled with the digital world. From smartphones to laptops,
social media to streaming services, we rely on technology for
communication, entertainment, and information. While the digital age
has undoubtedly brought convenience and connectivity, it has also
sparked discussions about its impact on mental health.
In this blog, I’ll discuss about the effects of screen time on our mental
well-being and how I explored the concept of a digital detox for a
healthier relationship with technology.
➢ The Digital Overload and Mental Health
Constant connectivity and information overload can take a toll on our mental health. Prolonged screen time has been associated with increased stress, anxiety, and even depression.
The following are the factors which I find contributing to this:
1. Comparison and Self-Esteem: Social media platforms often portray, idealized versions of people’s lives, leading to unhealthy comparisons and lower self-esteem.
Trust me I know many people who show something and are a different personality altogether in real life and I know you too would have someone in your mind while reading this.
2. Digital Burnout: The pressure to be always available through emails, messages, and notifications can result in burnout, disrupting the work-life balance.
Here I take my example; because of work or what so ever at times I have to constantly use my phone or any device which in turn results in burnout. At the end of the day, I feel exhausted and frustrated.
3. Disrupted Sleep Patterns: Exposure to screens before bedtime can disrupt our sleep patterns due to the blue light emitted by devices, affecting sleep quality and duration.
(even expert says so and tells everyone to avoid devices at least 2 hrs before bedtime)
4. Reduced Attention Span: Constant multitasking and switching between apps can diminish our ability to focus and concentrate on tasks.
You tend to forget what exactly you were doing and end up either mixing up everything or destroying everything or in other words messing up everything.
➢ HOW I managed myself for Digital Detox
A digital detox involves consciously and temporarily disconnecting from digital devices to rejuvenate our mental and emotional well-being. Here’s how I embarked on my digital detox journey:
1. Setting Clear Goals: I Defined why I want to detox. Whether it’s to reduce stress, increase productivity, or reconnect with the physical world, having clear goals kept me motivated.
2. Created Technology-Free Zones: Many areas at my place are tech-free zones meaning that; the dining room or sitting area, kitchen etc. are off-limits for devices. This encourages mindful interactions with my family and helps me sleep better.
(The one who is close to me knows that many areas and certain hours of mine are such that I don’t use mob phone or reply to any calls or messages.)
3. I try to Unplug Before Bed: I am still trying strictly to Establish a tech-free wind-down routine before bedtime. I Read books, listen to music, stand/sit on the balcony or terrace, and write a journal to unwind yet before sleeping I scroll feeds or watch videos and fail miserably to unplug. ( To a certain level now I’m able to reduce it, not fully but to some extent yes.)
4. Engaging in Physical Activities: I Use my newfound time to engage in physical activities like cycling, and sitting on a terrace or balcony. Physical exercise or relaxing mind is known to boost mood and eliminate stress and this helps me at my best.
5. Practicing Mindfulness: I Embrace mindfulness techniques like meditation to cultivate awareness and reduce digital distractions.
(I am not at all good at meditation but still I chant prayers which helps me achieve mindfulness.)
6. Planning Offline Activities: Rediscovered hobbies and activities that don’t involve screens. Spending time with my nephews, Spending time with my mom, Playing or being with my stray dogs and squirrels or any other animals is my favourite part of my day which provides me a feeling of being loved and relaxes my mind and heart and energy & positivity.
➢ Benefits of Digital Detox
1. Improved Mental Health: Detaching from screens can alleviate stress and anxiety, allowing me to focus on the present moment and my well-being.
2. Enhanced Relationships: With fewer digital distractions, I can nurture deeper connections with loved ones, fostering meaningful conversations and interactions.
3. Enhanced Productivity: The detox period leads me to increased productivity, as I regain the ability to concentrate without constant digital interruptions.
4. Restored Sleep Patterns: I Reduced screen exposure before bedtime, which improved my sleep quality and helped me with a more restful night.
➢ Final Thoughts
As the digital age continues to evolve, it’s essential to strike a balance between our digital lives and our mental well-being. Engaging in regular digital detox can help us recalibrate our relationship with technology and foster a healthier, more mindful lifestyle.
Remember, the goal isn’t to reject technology but to use it consciously and responsibly, prioritizing our mental health along the way.