Let’s face it, we all live in a weird “on” state these days. Phones in our pockets, notifications buzzing, it’s hard to remember a time before the digital world became our constant companion.  And while social media and all those apps connect us like never before, they can also leave us feeling stressed, anxious, or even lonely.

Think about it: how often do you scroll through Instagram, comparing your real life to someone else’s perfectly curated feed? Or maybe you get that familiar feeling of FOMO when you see friends having fun while you’re stuck at work. It’s enough to make someone feel terrible like you’re not doing your best.

But what if I told you there is a way to have your social media cake and eat it too (without the mental health side effects of course). It’s all about finding a balance between staying connected and taking care of yourself.

Remember, social media can be amazing! It lets us chat with loved ones across the globe, find communities built around our passions, and even get a good laugh.  Imagine feeling lost and suddenly finding a whole online group that gets your love for haunted houses and everything horror. 

But too much of a good thing…well, you know. The constant stream of updates, the pressure to present a perfect online self, it can all get overwhelming.  Here’s how to fight back and keep your digital life from draining your mental energy:

• Be a phone boss, not a phone slave! 
• Set limits on screen time and stick to them. Maybe it’s a phone-free zone at the dinner table, or turning off notifications for a few hours. Your brain (and your relationships) will thank you.
• Take a digital detox! Every now and then, give yourself a break. Pack away the phone, go for walks, or reconnect with real-life friends face-to-face. You might be surprised how much better you feel.
• Unfollow the drama queens (and kings). Social media should be a source of joy, not stress. If someone’s posts are making you feel bad about yourself, hit that unfollow button! 
• Curate your feed with people who inspire and uplift you.
• Focus on the real world! Make plans with friends, take up a new hobby, or simply enjoy some quiet time with a good book. Real-life connections and activities are essential for a healthy mind and body.

The tech companies are already on the case! Apps like Finch, and Fabulous gamify habit-building, rewarding you for sticking to your goals, including taking breaks from screen time or limiting your social media browsing. Imagine built-in features within our favorite social media platforms that gently nudge us to take a break after a certain amount of scrolling, or suggest calming activities when we’ve been doomscrolling for too long.  

Ultimately, the power lies with us. By being mindful of how we use technology and setting boundaries, we can navigate the vast digital landscape without sacrificing our mental well-being.  So let’s be smart, social, kind to ourselves in this brave new digital age, and most importantly, touch grass.