How to quit social media for a much-needed digital detox

Have you been feeling down lately? Then, consider quitting social media like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter).

Non-profit mental health website HelpGuide.org says social media can harm mental health in various ways. 

READ: How to protect your social media privacy

For example, it can cause you to feel dissatisfied with life, which can lead to anxiety and depression.

If you’ve been comparing yourself to everyone’s online highlights, then it might be time to quit social media with these steps.

How to stop using social media

Social media companies design their platforms to ensure you’ll stay as long as possible. Consequently, it can become difficult to disconnect completely.

That’s why the online browser Sidekick suggests the following methods to wean yourself off social media gradually over time: 

• Turn off notifications for social media, email and other apps. This step will keep you from checking online updates. 
• Limit your daily screen time to a few hours. 
• Moreover, set a “device-free time” when you won’t use any gadgets.  
• More importantly, use that device-free time for other activities. For example, you can go outside and exercise.
• Reconnect with friends and family IRL (in real life), instead of online.

You should also discourage yourself from using online platforms by making them difficult to use.

For example, log out after every usage session and do not save your password. Consequently, it will be more inconvenient and easier to quit. 

How to quit social media when your work depends on it

Many can’t stop using social media because it’s part of their jobs.

For example, marketing jobs require following Facebook and similar platforms to track consumer trends. 

Fortunately, you can limit these apps for work with these tips: 

• Identify which platforms you’d like to quit. Then, plan how you’ll manage these accounts and manage people who will inquire about your absence. 
• Delete or deactivate accounts that you don’t use at work. For example, you can deactivate your X (Twitter) account with this Inquirer Tech guide.
• Jot down the amount of time you’ve quit social media. This behavior encourages you to value your digital detox efforts, ensuring you’ll stay away from your old online habits.

If you’re still having second thoughts about quitting social media, check this Inquirer USA article.