The benefits of a digital detox

Disconnect to Reconnect

The benefits of a digital detox

We spend a lot of time on screens. Recent reporting shows that Americans check their phones an average of 144 times a day and may spend over 18 years of their adult life online. It's hard to take a break from our devices because it’s how we get our news and stay in touch. However, doing a digital detox can help us think clearly, boost our creativity, and strengthen our personal relationships, all with the ultimate goal of improving our physical and mental health.

What is a digital detox?

A digital detox is a set amount of time where you take a deliberate break from all your devices. The goal is to refocus, recharge, and regain a sense of ease without the distraction of technology.

Signs you may need a digital detox

1. You wake up and immediately reach for your phone.  
2. You find yourself bored so you scroll on social media.
3. You feel you will miss out if you don’t check your phone or social media.
4. Your sleep is affected by staying up on your phone.
5. You begin to miss out on in-person interactions.
6. You feel sad or anxious after scrolling through social media.

Benefits of a digital detox

1. Reduces stress. Being on your phone 24/7 can induce “popcorn brain,” which is when your brain becomes stressed out by being online. By putting your phone down, you can provide your body the rest you didn’t know it needed.
2. Improves overall health. Many of us sit and scroll for long periods. Studies suggest “sitting is the new smoking,” leading to greater risk of heart conditions and poor health. By getting off our devices, we can allow our bodies to regroup and get going.
3. Improves productivity. When we get off our phone, our day can free up. When you don’t feel the need to scroll, you’d be surprised how much you can get done during the day.
4. Improves sleep. Screens emit blue light, which trick our brain into thinking it’s daytime. This makes going to sleep even harder. When you put your phone down an hour to 30 minutes before bed, you’ll be able to get a better night’s sleep.
5. More time for the things you enjoy. When you replace your screentime with either exploring new things or enjoying things you already love, you’ll be amazed at how much richer your life can feel.

Getting back to what matters most

Decided that a digital detox is just what you need? Below are some ideas on how you can swap screen time for more life enriching activities.

1. Connect with others in person. When we are with other people, it has a positive impact on our minds, bodies, and overall health. So schedule that coffee date or host that game night, and let the laughs begin.
2. Read instead of watch. Pick up a book in the genre of tv show or movie you were going to watch on your phone.
3. Try a new hobby. Trying new things is the one of the best ways to keep the brain healthy. So try something new like learning how to paint, taking a photography class, or tackling a new home improvement task.
4. Be in nature. Sending time outside can reset our minds. Nature can improve our mood, mental health, and well-being. So put down the phone, grab a friend, and head out for a calming and restorative nature walk.

Your health plan offers many ways to support your mental and physical health. Whether it’s talking to a mental health specialist or physical therapy, we can provide the help you need. Check your benefits or find care on the Sydney^SM Health app or at anthem.com. You can also call the Member Services number on your health plan ID card to learn more.

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