Why a social media break may benefit your mental health?

We live in a world of social media where everything is accessible at the click of a button. With information overload out there in the open and that being only a fraction of reality, it can get hard to keep calm and not feel overwhelmed. Most people give in to comparison or often feel bewildered and reach a saturation point because of heavy content consumption. Undeniably, social media has its share of advantages of keeping people updated about trends, news, fashion, politics, and life in general. However, excess of anything is bad, and social media is no exception. Once in a while, taking a break from social media can be healthy for your mind. Yes, we know it’s hard, especially for the ones who are constantly scrolling through social media, but try it once, and you’ll thank us later!

Health Shots got in touch with Dr Pavana S, Consultant Psychiatrist and Relationship Expert, to understand the benefits of social media break.

Get off social media for a while to reap the benefits of a social media break

Taking a break from social media can yield several significant benefits for individuals. While social media platforms offer various opportunities for connection and information-sharing, a hiatus from these digital spaces can contribute to overall well-being in several ways.

1. Mental health improvement

“Constant exposure to social media can contribute to anxiety, depression, and feelings of inadequacy. A break allows individuals to disengage from comparison culture, reducing the pressure to conform to unrealistic standards,” says the expert. That break allows you to spend more time with yourself, leading to more self-awareness.

2. Increased productivity

Social media can be a significant time sink. Taking a break allows individuals to reclaim time that can be redirected towards more productive activities, both personally and professionally.

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3. Enhanced focus and concentration

Continuous notifications and the constant urge to check social media can fragment attention. A break helps in regaining focus, allowing individuals to concentrate better on tasks at hand, advises the expert.

4. Better sleep quality

Excessive social media use, especially before bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns. Disconnecting yourself from screens will allow you to follow a better sleep hygiene and lead to improved overall sleep quality.

5. Strengthens relationships

We spend so much social media that we tend to forget the importance of paying attention to real life connections. “Spending less time online can translate to more face-to-face interactions and deeper connections with friends and family. Real-world connections often prove more meaningful than virtual ones.

6. Improves self-esteem

Social media often fosters a culture of comparison, leading to lower self-esteem. A break provides individuals the opportunity to focus on their strengths and accomplishments without the constant backdrop of others’ curated lives.

Also read: Study reveals a link between social media, body image issues and eating disorders

7. Enhances privacy

We all know that our private profiles are not so private on social media. You basically give all your information online, which clearly means you are compromising on your privacy. Taking a break allows individuals to reassess their online presence, update privacy settings, and take control of the information they share.

8. Helps rediscover of hobbies

Social media can be addictive, leaving little time for personal interests and hobbies. A break provides the chance to rediscover and indulge in activities that bring joy and fulfillment that you have been missing out on because of spending too much time online.

In summary, a hiatus from social media can lead to improved mental health, increased productivity, better relationships, and an overall more balanced and fulfilling life. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time to switch your social media and be present.