The Power Of Digital Detoxing

Let’s be honest, most of us spend a good chunk of our day online. Whether we’re scrolling through TikTok, catching up on Instagram, or deep into Reddit posts, being digitally connected is just part of everyday life now. While it’s amazing to have the world just a tap away, it can start to take a toll on our mental wellbeing if we don’t give ourselves a break (which, we’re guilty of!). In fact, a study by the British Standards Institution found that 68% of young people aged 16–21 feel their mental health has taken a hit from spending more time online since the pandemic[1].

What Is Digital Detoxing?

The whole idea of Digital Detoxing is to take a break from the constant distraction of notifications, endless scrolling, and digital noise so you can reconnect with what’s happening around you. All  of us have different media habits… Some of us check our phones once an hour, others every few minutes (guilty). So a digital detox isn’t the same duration or experience for all. For some, it might be a weekend offline. For others, especially if social media feels a bit too consuming, it could mean stepping away for a few weeks. It’s all about finding what feels right for you and your personal mental reset.

What Are The Benefits

The benefits of a digital detox go beyond just putting your phone down. One of the biggest benefits is a sharper attention span[2], and with that, comes a boost in productivity. That means more focus at work, more energy for your personal goals, and stronger connections with the people you truly care about. Instead of zoning out on the sofa, both of you locked into your own doom scrolls, you’re actually present with your partner and being together.

it’s not just your energy and productivity that get a boost, your sleep can improve too. Scrolling through your phone right before bed might feel relaxing in the moment, but the blue light from screens can mess with your natural sleep cycle. The same goes for late TV binges (that means catching up on the latest love island episode!) tempting, we know. Instead, try winding down with a book. If you’re more of a digital reader, Kindles and other e-ink devices are a great option as they’re much gentler on the eyes and better for your sleep than traditional screens[3].

Honestly, one of the biggest reasons to try a digital detox is the impact it can have on your mental health. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok have been shown time and time again to take a toll, especially when it comes to how we see ourselves. It’s so easy to fall into the comparison trap, constantly measuring your life against someone else’s highlight reel. But what we often forget is that social media rarely shows the full picture. it’s the polished, filtered moments, not the everyday reality. For younger audiences especially, this constant comparison can seriously knock self confidence.

🤳Did you know? A striking 77% of young people now feel unhappy with their appearance, with many comparing themselves unfavorably to photos on TikTok and Instagram[4]

The Best Methods For A Digital Detox

The best way to do a digital detox is by setting clear boundaries for yourself. These simple but effective steps help you regain control over your digital habits and create space for more meaningful, offline moments:

• Setting notifications to ‘Do Not Disturb’ - The Do Not Disturb feature on most modern phones is a handy tool you can set to turn on automatically or during specific times like bedtime to help you stay focused or wind down without distractions. Instructions on this feature can be found here for iPhone or Android/Google

• Screen time limits - Screen time limits are a great way to keep your digital use in check without going completely offline. This helps you become more aware of how much time you’re spending on your devices and encourages healthier habits. Instructions on this feature can be found here for iPhone or Android/Google

• Removing social media apps - Sometimes the best way to protect your mental health is by hitting the uninstall button on social media apps that drain you or trigger negative feelings. Removing these apps can help break the cycle of constant comparison

• Having a ‘tech free’ day - Another great digital detox method is going on a tech free day. Completely unplug from all screens for 24 hours or even just a weekend. It might sound tough at first, but taking a full break helps reset your digital habit and reduces stress

At the end of the day, looking after yourself means more than just managing screen time, it’s about truly being present and cherishing the people who are physically there with you. A digital detox isn’t about giving up technology forever, it’s about finding balance, reconnecting with yourself, and making space for real, meaningful moments.