Digital Detox: How Unplugging from Technology Can Improve Your Mental Health

The Mental Health Minute

Welcome to

The Mental Health Minute!

Trivia Question❓

Which 20th-century psychologist coined the term “information overload” to describe the mental strain caused by receiving too much information at once, a concept central to the modern need for digital detoxes?

Answer at the bottom of the newsletter

Digital Detox: How Unplugging from Technology Can Improve Your Mental Health

In our modern, technology-driven world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed and overstimulated by constant digital distractions. From emails and social media to work-related tasks and news updates, technology bombards us 24/7. While these devices help us stay connected and productive, they can also lead to stress, anxiety, and burnout. A digital detox—an intentional break from screens—can be a powerful way to improve mental health and regain balance.

Constant connectivity can lead to information overload, which contributes to feelings of stress and anxiety. Studies have shown that excessive screen time, especially on social media, can lead to increased feelings of inadequacy, comparison, and FOMO (fear of missing out). Taking a break from these platforms allows you to disconnect from the constant barrage of information and focus on the present moment.

A digital detox helps reduce the cognitive load on your brain, giving it the opportunity to rest and recharge. When you step away from your devices, you create space for more meaningful activities like spending time with loved ones, engaging in hobbies, or simply relaxing. These activities help nurture emotional well-being and foster real-life connections that can be more fulfilling than online interactions.

Physically, a digital detox can also improve sleep quality. The blue light emitted by screens interferes with melatonin production, making it harder to fall asleep at night. By setting aside your devices an hour before bed, you can improve your sleep hygiene and enjoy more restorative rest.

To begin your digital detox, set boundaries around your screen time. Start by designating screen-free zones, such as during meals or in the bedroom. You can also schedule specific times for checking emails or social media, limiting distractions throughout the day. Most importantly, make time for activities that help you recharge—whether it’s reading a book, going for a walk, or enjoying a hobby. A digital detox doesn’t mean abandoning technology entirely, but rather being more mindful of its role in your life. By stepping away from screens regularly, you’ll reduce stress, improve your mental health, and feel more present in the world around you.

See you next week!

Scott Lifer,

Editor In Chief

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💡 Answer to Trivia Question:

Alvin Toffler, in his 1970 book Future Shock, highlighted how rapid technological change and excessive information can overwhelm individuals—a principle that underpins today’s approaches to managing screen time and digital stress.

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