Media Detox
Whether we like it or not, media plays a big role in today’s society, and it’s no surprise that people are openly voicing their distaste with the excessive prevalence of media. From news alerts to emails to social media notifications, our smartphones are bombarded with media content on a daily basis. Social media platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest are increasingly gaining notoriety for their addictiveness. Many of us may feel like we can’t get enough and habitually check our phones several times within the day, hour, or even minute.
As we continue to integrate technology and media into our lives, we may feel less and less in control of our media intake. Cutting back on social media seems like a challenge, but there are steps we can take towards a media detox. The following tips can help wean you off a social media obsession and set a healthy balance:
- Turn off notifications: Many of us are conditioned to reach for our phones when we receive a notification. Turning them off can help reduce the amount of times we subconsciously check our social media.
- Uninstall social media apps: Having easy access to social media increases your usage, so uninstalling the apps discourages you from checking social media mindlessly.
- Deactivate: Commit to deactivating your account – even if it’s just for a couple days. This prevents you from checking your social media on a whim and gives you more time to focus on other things.
- Find replacements: A social media detox can be especially challenging if you’re bored. Find things you can do that replace the time you would spend on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter. Every time you feel yourself wanting to check your feed, turn to your replacement activity instead.
The presence of social media can be seen as a negative thing, but it doesn’t have to be. Understanding the implications and effects of social media on your life can help you clarify and restore your goals. If you are struggling with a social media addiction, don’t hesitate to contact one of our MFTs for advice and guidance. Counseling California supports you – get connected today!
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