How to Rest Our Brain from Social Media

Let's unravel this mystery and see why disconnecting a bit could be a winning strategy for your mental well-being.

Is the internet tickling our brains?

We live in a world where clicks and "likes" govern a good part of our existence. Social media is that virtual corner where we seek entertainment, information, and the occasional laugh with cat memes (who can resist!). However, these platforms can be a double-edged sword for our mental health.

In 2024, the term "brain deterioration" took the crown as the word of the year according to Oxford University Press, highlighting the growing concern about the effects of excessive digital content consumption.

Here's a fun fact: every time we receive a "like" or a positive comment, our brain rewards us with a rush of dopamine, the pleasure hormone. It's like a boost of joy! But, just like with sweets, too much is never good.

The brain in "dopamine deficit mode"

Did you know that the brain has a way of balancing those spikes of dopamine? When we spend too much time seeking those small digital rewards, the brain reduces its production of dopamine to avoid being overwhelmed. It's like your brain is a very strict accountant! This can lead to a cycle where we need more time on social media to feel normal. And of course, here come apathy and anxiety, like uninvited guests to the party.

But, not everything is lost! Experts suggest that a break from social media can make a big difference in our brain health. Anna Lembke, a wise expert in addiction medicine, states that these breaks allow our brain to "reset" its reward circuits. Can you imagine having a brain like new? Well, almost.

How to cope with digital "detox" without dying in the attempt?

Leaving social media may sound as terrifying as facing a Monday without coffee, but it's simpler than it seems. Studies show that even small breaks have remarkable benefits. One example is a study with 65 girls who showed significant improvements in their self-esteem after just three days of pause. Three days! That's less than a long weekend lasts.

At first, a digital detox may seem like a gigantic challenge. Anxiety and irritability might come into play, but don't worry. Sarah Woodruff, co-author of a study on these effects, assures that this initial period is temporary. The good news is that, after a week, the detox usually becomes more manageable, and you might even start to enjoy it!

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