In today’s society, social media plays a significant role in our lives. We scroll through our newsfeed to stay updated with our friends’ lives and follow our favorite influencers.

However, have you ever stopped and considered the impact of social media on your mental health?.

A recent study has suggested that taking a 15-minute break from social media can improve mental health and build a stronger defense.

The Study

The study was conducted by researchers at the University of Pennsylvania.

The team assigned 143 undergraduate students to either limit their social media use to 10 minutes per platform (Facebook, Instagram, and Snapchat) per day or to continue using social media as usual for three weeks. The participants were given a pre- and post-test to measure their mental health and well-being.

Results

The study found that the participants who took breaks from social media, especially those who limited their social media use to 10 minutes per day, reported better mental health and improved life satisfaction compared to those who continued using social media as usual. The researchers also found that the participants who limited their social media use were less likely to develop depression and anxiety.

Negative effects of social media on mental health have been widely acknowledged. Social media can cause anxiety, depression, and loneliness.

Taking a break from social media can help break the cycle of negative thoughts and allow individuals to focus on their well-being.

Moreover, social media is not a reflection of reality. People often tend to showcase only the positive aspects of their lives, leading others to believe that their lives are less fulfilling.

Constant comparison can lead to feelings of inadequacy and lack of self-worth. Taking a break from social media can give individuals the chance to reflect on their own lives without the pressure of comparisons.

Here are some tips for taking a break from social media:.

Set a timer for your social media use. Limit your use of social media to a specific time frame each day for a limited duration.
Uninstall social media apps from your phone.
Use apps that encourage you to spend time away from your phone.
Replace social media with beneficial activities such as exercising, reading, or spending time with loved ones.
Plan a digital detox weekend or vacation.