7 Benefits Of Leaving Social Media For A While

Today, social networks are part of our daily lives. However, some evidence indicates a link between overuse of these platforms and the risk of developing certain mental health problems. Next, we’ll introduce you to some benefits of getting off social media for a while.

While it may seem unthinkable to stop checking Instagram or Facebook for a day, doing so can be a good thing. It will not only help you to prevent different conditions, but it will also allow you to have new pleasant experiences.

Can exiting social media be beneficial?

The media often publish alarmist headlines in which they talk about the dangers of social media. However, not all information published on the Internet is reliable. So the question arises: what is true in this statement?

In 2016, a survey was published that evaluated the relationship between depression and the use of social networks in young American adults. The results showed that the increased use of social networks was associated with high levels of depression.

On the other hand, Twenge et al (2017) developed other similar work, but this time with American adolescents. The conclusion was that those who spent more time on social media were more likely to suffer from psychological problems. Meanwhile, those who performed activities without screens had a lower risk.

Based on that, we can say that the benefits of leaving social media for a while are real. Anything that is made or consumed in excess ends up being negative for physical and mental health. So it’s logical to assume that taking an occasional break from social media and the Internet is a positive thing.

The benefits of leaving social media for a while

It is important to emphasize that there is still no scientific consensus on the use of social networks and mental health. The research mentioned shows a correlation, but not a causality.

More studies still need to be carried out to effectively determine this link and understand the mechanisms involved. Despite this, it cannot be denied that disconnecting from social media can be beneficial.

1. Prevents anxiety, depression and other problems

This is one of the benefits of getting out of social media if we take into account previous studies. Disconnecting for a while can be a good way to prevent psychological problems such as anxiety and depression.

The above doesn’t mean that social media is bad. It is even possible to find spaces dedicated to promoting psychological health on these platforms. So, the question itself is not social media, but what kind of use is given to it. If used as tools for personal growth, they can be great allies.

2. Helps to avoid addiction

Krach et al (2010) published an article in which they pointed out that successful social interactions promote dopamine release. This neurotransmitter is involved in the sensation of pleasure, being also released with the use of drugs. Thus, social networks open millions of interaction possibilities that stimulate the brain, which can become a behavioral addiction.

For that reason, one of the benefits of getting off social media for a while is that you won’t become addicted. Those who develop this addiction feel anxiety and stress when they do not have a cell phone, which impairs their quality of life.

3. Face to face interaction

One of the problems associated with using the Internet is that the bonds we establish with other people are often superfluous. Due to the limitations imposed by technology during communication, much of the non-verbal language and other aspects of interaction are lost. Consequently, the bonds can become very weak and unsatisfactory.

So, moving away from social media is an excellent opportunity to communicate in the real world with those you care about. There’s no denying that these platforms help us stay connected; the bad thing is that, without realizing it, they can drive us away from others.

4. Allows you to get to know your surroundings better

Sometimes people get so immersed in virtual spaces that they forget there is a world out there. Little by little, family, friends, co-workers or schoolmates become distant individuals.

5. Avoid obesity and other physical problems

The benefits of leaving social networks for a while are not limited to the psychological, as they also influence the physical aspect. The use of cell phones, tablets and computers means being inactive for long periods of time, maintaining a sedentary lifestyle.

Scientific evidence indicates that this habit is related to physical health problems, such as obesity, cardiovascular disease, etc. To avoid this, try to use part of the hours you invest in social media to do some physical activity. It’s not about having a heavy routine at the gym, just going out for a walk often.

6. Increases your self-esteem

People often use social media to seek out ideals they aspire to achieve and this can lead to complexities. It’s no secret that we usually try to show our “better side” in these spaces. As a result, we create an image that basically only generates discomfort: for its dissonance with the real self and for the investment necessary to maintain it.

Therefore, it is important to remember that everyone experiences different personal conflicts. What you see on Facebook or Instagram is not reality. If you cut down on the time spent on these applications, you’re less likely to fall prey to this illusion.

7. Leaving social media improves your quality of life

Considering the above points, it is possible to affirm that the responsible use of social networks improves the quality of life. It prevents not only mental health problems, but also physical ones, which increases the feeling of well-being.

In conclusion, there are many benefits of getting off social media for a while. The truth is, we can benefit from them if we use them responsibly. Remember that if you are experiencing any kind of emotional distress, you can always seek professional help.