Have you ever lost track of time on social media? Maybe a 5-minute quick check in turned in to 30 minutes. You’re not alone! In today’s society, it can be hard to escape the “like” culture. For instance, on social media such as Facebook or Instagram, it can be addictive to check how many likes, hearts, or reactions you have received. Checking social media once in a while is usually fine. However, when checking social media becomes a daily habit, it can negatively impact mental health. Detoxing from the “Like” culture may provide some useful benefits to your mental health.

  Social media brings new challenges to having a healthy, balanced life. Long before social media, (yes, there was such a time), individuals could go home, relax, and enjoy either alone time or family time. However, with social media it has become increasingly harder to disconnect. Sure, there are some benefits, such as connecting to friends and family near and far, especially in current times with the pandemic. However, viewing negative stories on social media, or not receiving enough likes, can take a toll on individuals.

  Trying a “30-day detox” from all social media could be beneficial. What are some other activities you enjoy? Maybe during the absence of social media, learning an activity that you never quite had the time for before can become a reality. The extra time could also be used for self-care. For example, taking a nice bath, exercising, meditating, the list could go on and on.   Even being silent and focusing on your breath can be therapeutic. Try breathing in for 4 seconds, holding your breath for 4 seconds, and releasing your breath for 4 seconds. Repeat this process for at least 1 minute and check in with yourself to see how you feel. At first, deep breathing can feel odd and racing thoughts may arise. However, if this happens, continue to focus on your breath, and for any thoughts that may race into your mind, allow them to enter and exit without thinking more into the thought.

  By detoxing from social media for at least 30 days, you may see some positive benefits such as learning new activities, becoming more mindful of breathing, or just overall feeling more relaxed. Remember to check in with yourself daily to see how you feel and maybe a detox from the “like” culture may help.