Why a Social Media Detox is the Only Detox You Actually Need (and How to Do It)
We've all heard the buzz about detoxes, promising to cleanse our bodies and minds. But let's be real; most of them are just hype and don’t actually work. Today, I want to share the only detox that truly delivers: a social media detox.
Why Social Media is the Real Toxin
This isn't about eliminating kale smoothies or coffee. It's about addressing a real problem that affects our mental well-being: excessive social media use. May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it's the perfect time to reflect on how platforms like TikTok and Instagram impact our mental health.
A study published in JAMA Pediatrics in 2019 found a significant link between increased screen time, including social media, and depression in adolescents. Similarly, research in JAMA Psychiatry (2022) linked higher social media use to increased risk of internalizing problems like depression and anxiety in young adolescents.
Even in the fitness world, where we aim to promote healthy lifestyles, Instagram often reinforces unrealistic body standards and unhealthy comparisons. A 2016 review in Current Psychiatry Reports highlighted the extensive evidence linking social media use to body dissatisfaction and disordered eating behaviors in young women.
The Fitspiration Paradox
Ironically, even those who post "fitspiration" content are more likely to experience body image issues and eating disorders. These platforms are designed to be addictive, and overcoming this addiction can be a challenge.
Social media use is associated with various mental health issues, including depression, anxiety, loneliness, and sleep problems, which are also some of the drivers that cause so many users to engage with it. It's a vicious cycle that can be hard to break.
How to Detox Your Social Media Feed
A social media detox doesn't mean abandoning these platforms entirely, but for some of us, that may be the best option. Consider trying any of these approaches:
Go Cold Turkey: Delete the app and let your close friends know how to reach you.
Prune Your Feed: Unfollow accounts that trigger negative emotions and only follow those that inspire and uplift you. I highly recommend Coach Bean’s account.
Cleanse Your Hashtags: Unfollow or mute hashtags that encourage comparison or negativity.
Try a 3rd Party App to prevent Doomscrolling: I personally love ScreenZen as it can limit your use and also block you from unconsciously opening certain apps.
How Long Should You Detox?
There's no one-size-fits-all answer. The goal is to prioritize your mental health, so go at your own pace and detox for as long as it feels beneficial. A 2019 study in The Lancet Child & Adolescent Health found that young adults who use social media for more than two hours a day are more likely to report psychological distress, so even reducing your usage below that threshold my be of benefit.
Making the Detox Easier
Detoxes are challenging, but the benefits are worth it. Here are some tips to make it easier:
Replace Doomscrolling: Find a simple, enjoyable activity to replace the time you usually spend on social media. This could be playing games, watching cat videos, taking a walk, or browsing funny memes on Imgur.
Find Alternatives: If you use social media for news or information, subscribe to those sources directly outside of the platform.
Be Realistic: Don't expect to instantly replace social media with meditation if it's not already part of your routine. Choose alternatives that are easy to access and enjoyable.
Join the NOVA Strong Community
At NOVA Strong Personal Training, we understand the importance of fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for your fitness journey. We're a community that celebrates your individuality and supports you every step of the way. We invite you to experience the power of connection and leave the toxic effects of social media behind.
Take the first step to joining our close-knit community below by booking your free consultation.
