UXL Blog

It’s okay to disconnect. You do not always have to be plugged into the news, celebrity gossip, or the latest social media trends. In fact, these things might be having an adverse effect on your mental and emotional health. At times, it might be best to simply step away and take a social media detox.

It is no secret that social media can toy with our emotions. We often see either the best or the worst of humanity, which can either leave us depressed or make us question our self-worth. On the one hand, we can be exposed to bad news, cruelty, and nasty comments…and moments later we might see a post featuring a “perfect” family making French toast together in their “perfect” kitchen. This yo-yo effect can give us emotional whiplash and leave us feeling uneasy, guilty, or depressed. And recent studies back this up.

According to researchers Lawrence Robinson and Melinda Smith of Help Guide, “Multiple studies have found a strong link between heavy social media [use] and an increased risk for depression, anxiety, loneliness, self-harm, and even suicidal thoughts.”

Social media can also affect a person’s self-image. When we constantly compare ourselves with others, we can’t help but feel inadequate. And the truth is, we’re comparing ourselves to an impossible standard. Most people will only publish the most polished, edited, and filtered versions of themselves on social media, while neglecting to include the messier parts of their lives. This can lead to feelings of low self-esteem, body image issues, and even depression.

Additionally, the constant need to check social media and receive validation through likes and comments can become addictive, further contributing to mental health problems.

To be clear, I am not suggesting that we all become completely disconnected and uninformed about current events. However, taking a break from social media can provide a much-needed respite. It allows you to focus on the present moment, engage in real-world interactions, and cultivate a healthier relationship with technology. By stepping away, you can regain a sense of control, reduce feelings of anxiety and depression, and reconnect with your authentic self. A social media detox can be a powerful tool to improve your mental well-being and foster a more balanced and fulfilling life.

To actually achieve a little distance from social media, I suggest the following tactics:

• Turn off notifications for social media apps on your devices
• Set aside specific times of the day to check social media, rather than constantly scrolling
• Unfollow accounts that make you feel inadequate or negatively impact your mood
• Replace social media time with other activities that bring you joy, like reading, exercising, or spending time with loved ones
• Consider a complete social media detox for a set period, such as a week or a month, to reset your relationship with these platforms

A social media detox can be a powerful way to regain control over your digital life and improve your overall well-being. By setting boundaries, curating your feed, and replacing social media time with more fulfilling activities, you can reduce feelings of anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem. Remember, it’s okay to disconnect and prioritize your mental health. Embrace the present moment, engage in real-world interactions, and cultivate a healthier relationship with technology. A social media detox can be a transformative experience, empowering you to live a more balanced and fulfilling life.

MARGARET SMITH IS A CAREER COACH, AUTHOR, INSIGHTS® DISCOVERY (AND DEEPER DISCOVERY) LICENSED PRACTITIONER, AND FOUNDER OF UXL. SHE HOSTS WORKSHOPS FOR PEOPLE WHO NEED CAREER OR PERSONAL GUIDANCE. 
CHECK OUT MARGARET’S ONLINE LEADERSHIP COURSE. 

Tags: Margaret Smith life coach, Margaret Smith Minneapolis career coach, social media break, step away from social media, unplugging from social media, why take social media detox