In our hyper-connected world filled with constant notifications, endless doom scrolling and piles of homework can leave us feeling overwhelmed. Taking regular breaks from social media is vital for our mental well-being. These breaks can refresh our minds, boost creativity and restore balance.
Stepping away from the digital noise allows our minds to reset, foster creativity and restore a sense of balance in our daily lives. As more people recognize the impact of social media on their mental health, digital detoxes are becoming a powerful tool for reclaiming focus, reducing stress and fostering more meaningful real-world connections.
Excessive social media use can increase anxiety, shorten attention spans and disrupt sleep. The constant flow of information and comparison-driven content can elevate stress and harm self-esteem. By setting boundaries and incorporating screen-free time into daily routines, people can develop healthier habits, enhance their well-being and take control of their time and mental space.
Senior Karina Garcia shares her thoughts about taking time for yourself.
“Just like the students around me would agree, stress is a daily thing that seems to never go away. My stress levels tend to peak especially whenever I am on social media for too long or just have a lot of school work to do. Social media is undeniably stress-inducing and has led many people to experience anxiety and fear if not used in a proper way,” Garcia said.
This is a major reason why incorporating small, intentional breaks from technology can create a much-needed mental reset and provide the space to refocus on personal goals. Rather than being continuously glued to our devices, these moments of pauses allow for a healthier balance between productivity and relaxation. The shift towards individuals actively choosing when and how to engage with social media, is becoming an important step in the journey to improving mental health.
As we become more mindful of our screen time, we can experience greater satisfaction in our offline friendships, enjoy more restful sleep and feel more present in our everyday activities. By disconnecting from the constant stream of digital content, we open up space for deeper, more meaningful connections with the people around us. This shift allows us to be more attentive, engaged and emotionally available in face-to-face interactions.
Santa Ana High School sophomore Solei Harris adds her input on becoming more connected with others without social media.
“Some ways I stop myself from using social media is to turn off my notifications. I also like to keep my phone in another room when I’m socializing,” Harris said.
When we limit our time on social media, we create space to focus more on the people around us and our school work. This benefits our friendships and relationships and helps us become more attentive and emotionally available to others. This mindful approach that Harris and other students make allows them to stay engaged in real-life conversations and avoid distractions from their work, further emphasizing the value of disconnecting to reconnect.
“A break once in a while won’t hurt you; just remember to always get back after the break is over,” Garcia said.
