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Social media has become one of the most important parts of our lives. From scrolling reels for hours to waiting to get validation through likes, we’re all stuck. Though these platforms have provided easy access to information, entertainment, and connectivity; they have also profoundly affected our mental well-being. Stepping away from it, even if for just a while, sometimes makes us feel anxious or makes us feel left out. Though it helps us stay in touch with our loved ones it is affecting our mental health in ways we cannot think of.

But what happens when we stop using social media? Does this help enhance our mental health? To get answers we got in touch with Dr Munia Bhattacharya, Consultant - Psychologist, Marengo Asia Hospital Gurugram. Here’s what he says!

Social media is a source of stress and anxiety for many people. With constant notifications, comparisons, and the need to keep an online presence, our minds are kept on the rack. By refraining yourself from using social media, you give yourself a break on what triggers these factors. With no endless scrolling, people have claimed that they feel much less overwhelmed and relaxed.

The primary reason for such a decline in a sense of inadequacy and apprehension is usually the end to such comparisons by people with others' highlight reels. Reducing display time means having to reboot one's mind for a more serene approach to performance in accomplishing daily tasks.

The defining characteristic of social media is its addictive tendency. More often than not, it lures people for long scrolling sessions, thus distracting them from other activities that, apart from wading time, might also affect their concentration. Upon staying away, one realizes that they actually have time and mental capacity for the things that matter. With fewer interruptions, people concentrate much better on tasks and projects and, therefore, are more productive.

Studies even suggest that even a brief time away from social media can enhance concentration because the mind would no longer be focused in between, constantly acting on some other activity. This change can benefit most students, working professionals, or even anyone who needs to accomplish tasks.

Social media is extremely draining of self-esteem, particularly on an application like Instagram where most of the pictures are heavily edited. People soon find themselves comparing real life to the virtual world, and getting misled from what is seen online. Comparisons reduce when one does not have social media, and most people begin to have a good self-concept and body image. This will give you time to remember your values and priorities rather than what people like, share, and follow you. For some, this break might be the beginning of a healthier relationship with themselves.

Better use of social media at night before sleep will prevent interference with quality sleep. The blue light emitted by the computer screens will reduce melatonin production, thus lowering your chances of falling asleep during the night. Moreover, interactions on social media tend to stimulate your brain and keep it more active during times when you should be winding down.

By stopping social media, especially at night time, you can quickly fall asleep and improve your chances of resting better. A good night's sleep enhances the overall condition of mood, cognitive functioning, and physical well-being.

Social media continues to rip one from the present, tending to shift attention from the experience of real life and instead toward virtual encounters. It's much easier when you leave social media and related entrancement and engage with the present surroundings. Similarly, relationships with friends and family get even closer because you are more likely to be in attendance and focused on the encounters. Perceived appreciation for everyday moments also increases greatly among people who delete their social media for a while. Increasing awareness often contributes to overall happiness and satisfaction.

While designed for connection, in some instances social media can disconnect making a person feel lonely. Stopping the use of social media puts the need to connect or engage with people at the real level or even a deep level into an enhanced scale. With increased time and mental clarity, the majority invest in real-life relationships hence strengthening their connections with friends and family.

“Taking time off from social media can rejuvenate your mind. It can decrease anxiety, improve your concentration, increase your self-esteem, heighten your mindfulness, help you sleep much better, and improve your real-life connection. Whether it is for a day, a week, or for good, the positive effects of taking a break from social media can be strong and lasting,” he said.

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