Taking a Digital Detox

By Abigail Rodgers

We currently live in a technological age and rely heavily on smartphones and devices to navigate our daily lives. The convenience of having the internet at our fingertips, up-to-date global news, and the ability to see what our friends are doing on social media keeps us connected to the world around us. But what happens when this constant connectivity starts to feel overwhelming? While technology has transformed our world in many positive ways, it also takes its toll on our mental well-being and interpersonal relationships. A movement has emerged in response to our growing dependence on technology called “digital detox”.

A “digital detox” can be whatever you need it to be - eliminate social media, email, video games, texting, or TV. The potential psycho-social effects of these daily luxuries can be subtle, but studies have shown that disconnecting can lead to better sleep, reduced stress, and more meaningful interactions with loved ones.

To undertake your own digital detox, it's essential to make a plan, stay accountable, and reflect on the changes you observe in your life. When I first noticed how much time I was spending on social media, I set screen time limits and restricted notifications. However, I found that I would often press ignore and continue scrolling. At work I kept my phone in an inner pocket of my scrub jacket, using it only when necessary. Without constant notifications, I could stay on task and get to know the staff I work with. Still, when I got home, I would get right back on social media because the mindless scrolling stops me from ruminating on my day at work.

This week, I considered which social media apps I use the most and how they affect my daily life. I realized I was constantly checking notifications, and although it’s good to stay connected with friends, I wasn’t having conversations so much as keeping up a snap streak and passively liking photos. I opted to try a “digital detox” from Snapchat, Tiktok, and Instagram to become more present in my daily life and to improve my relationships with friends and family by making a concerted effort to check in.

At the end of the week, I only felt the need to use those apps in moments of boredom. Instead of re-downloading the apps, I worked on a hobby or my residency applications - both activities helped reduce stress. When I re-downloaded the apps at the end of the week I found myself forgetting they were even there because I broke the habit of checking and endlessly scrolling.