In this age of social media, there’s a flip side to everything. The world offers us business opportunities and friendships while constantly providing us with notifications, updates, and endless content. To what extent has technology helped or affected us? One big question is: how do we protect our mental health from the ceaseless barrage of modern technology? Let’s review some methods to step back, recharge, and flourish in the world of technology.

1. Unplug to Assist Your Mind: Getting off the Grid at Times

Considering Twitter, Instagram, and other social media platforms, you must always power your brain. Here’s a tip that may surprise you: Your brain is not comparable to a smartphone; there is no low battery alert when you run on empty!

When discussing a digital detox, we are not referring to quitting everything cold turkey. Instead, we mean stepping away slowly and gently by eliminating all screens and social media. Making headspace in your life can substantially allow for a ‘detox’. Don’t believe us? Give it a try.

Why Detox?

Mental Clarity: Attempting news and constant scrolling can soon overwhelm you. A detox allows you some breathing space, at the least.

Improved Sleep: You know that blue light from screens inhibits your sleep, and taking breaks allows you to recover your sleeping cycle.

Healthier Relationships: Disconnecting allows you to engage actively in face-to-face discussions.

Detox Advice: Take A Baby Step.

You do not have to go completely offline for a week to reap the rewards of “social media detoxing.” One way to begin is to take breaks throughout the day by shutting off your phone, with no screen time for an hour or 2. Make one weekend a month a deal where you do not use tech. Believe us, your head will appreciate it.

2. Digital Therapy: Your Therapist is Just One Click Away

In the past, therapy involved making an appointment, arriving at an office, and sitting next to the therapist, and it was a little scary. Nowadays, you can access mental health support at the click of a button—it’s that easy! Help is available through video calls, voice notes, and even text therapy! The world and therapy have shifted, making it much easier to access.

Why Online Therapy is a game-changer?

Convenience: Self-care is a priority for everyone, so make the appointment whenever convenient. You can’t get more comfortable than in your own home!

Everyone deserves to take care of their mental health, no matter where they call home. Online therapy is perfect for those living in rural or remote areas with less readily available support.

Confidentiality: Are you apprehensive about going to a therapist’s office? You can use online therapy to manage your surroundings better.

Pro Tip: Go for platforms that offer tailored therapy sessions if you’re having issues related to anxiety, stress, or even just intense emotions. It’s all about personalizing therapy!

3. Mindfulness Apps: Be Here, Now

Imagine having the ability to access meditation, mindfulness, and relaxation on your phone at any time. Magic, right? This is precisely what mindfulness apps like Headspace, Calm, and Insight Timer provide!

In this fast-paced world, where staying focused is the hardest thing to accomplish, these apps can be convenient for helping you stay grounded and concentrated. These applications can guide you through meditations whenever you feel overwhelmed and help calm you down quickly.

Why Mindfulness Matters:

Reduces Stress: Mindfulness practices are effective at overcoming anxiety and stress. Spending just a few minutes daily is enough to reap long-lasting effects.

Increases Focus: Whisper to your mind: it’s time to stop scrolling and start being productive!

Improves Sleep: Get quality rest by drowning in sleep quicker. More than most mindfulness apps, relaxative exercises help you fall asleep quickly.

App Tip: Try meditating or practising deep breathing exercises to make your day less stressful. These could benefit you when you find yourself overwhelmed by the digital world.

4. Social Media: Quality Over Quantity

We all know: Social media can be a double-edged sword. While staying connected is truly a luxury, many fail to understand that all the comparisons and drama actually drain us more than we realize. But remember, the important thing is to focus on quality rather than quantity.

How to Make Social Media Work for You:

Unfollow the Negative: Make it a point not to follow people who bring you down. Follow more accounts that aim to inspire or educate you, and if you feel that someone’s posts make you sad, just unfollow them.

Set Boundaries: Designate areas during meals, bedtime, or quality time with loved ones as “no phone” zones. Having a healthy relationship with social media requires balance.

Engage in Meaningful Conversations: Instead of just scrolling through your feed, try engaging with posts that matter to you. It will directly boost your mood and improve your sense of connection.

5. Importance of ‘me time’ in a digitally driven setting.

With the advancement of technology, modern society tends to overlook one of the most important aspects of one’s mental well-being: time for oneself. Be it indulging in a novel, preparing a meal, or strolling down the park, a solo activity is a must.

Why is ‘me time’ needed?

Alone time brings out a person’s latent passion and emotion. It helps you reconnect and recharge your batteries. Self-esteem gets a big boost when one takes care of oneself. Self-love is an act of self-love that guides one to prioritize oneself.

Coming to a conclusion: Balance is essential to achieve success in the hostile digitized world.

Taking a leap into ‘the age of digital’ means considering the prospects of enhanced mental health. Whether in a digital detox, therapy or simply engaging an app with mindfulness, the crux is balance. Make it a point to unplug and rest when need be. Engage with purpose. Above all, prioritize your mental well-being. So, what’s stopping you?

Have you used an online psychologist or participated in a digital detox? Tell us about it in the comments below. Also, do let us know what steps you are taking towards a healthier mind.

-Paridhi Saxena – (Dwij Volunteer)