In today’s world, it’s easy to feel overstimulated and chronically online. From checking messages to scrolling through social media, screens and notifications are often part of our daily routine.
While technology can help us stay informed and connected, it can also feel overwhelming at times. Taking small breaks from screens — sometimes called a “digital detox” — can be a simple way to support our wellbeing.
Finding space to pause
A digital detox doesn’t have to mean completely disconnecting. Instead, it can be about creating small moments away from screens.
This might look like putting your phone aside during a walk, spending time outdoors, or simply taking a few quiet minutes without notifications.
Research suggests that reducing screen time and social media use can have a positive impact on mental wellbeing, including improvements in mood and reductions in stress (Allcott et al., 2020; Marciano et al., 2022).
Reconnecting with everyday moments
When we step away from screens, we often create space for other experiences — spending time with others, engaging in hobbies, or simply being present in the moment.
These small shifts can help us feel more grounded and connected to what’s happening around us.
Studies have also shown that excessive smartphone use is associated with negative mental health outcomes, highlighting the importance of creating boundaries with digital technology (Sohn et al., 2021; Riehm et al., 2020).
Starting small
A digital detox doesn’t need to be a big change. Starting small can make it feel more manageable.
You might try:
Setting aside time each day without your phone
Going for a walk without checking notifications
Creating screen-free moments before bed
Over time, these small steps can help build a healthier relationship with technology.
Supporting your wellbeing
Wellbeing looks different for everyone, and there is no single way to approach a digital detox.
Taking time to pause, reflect, and reconnect with everyday experiences can be a gentle way to support both your mental and emotional wellbeing.
How the Christina Ghobadi Foundation can help with wellbeing
The grants we offer aim to enable access to meaningful activities that promote the
wellbeing of young people living with and recovering from cancer treatment in
Victoria
Click here to find out more about how to apply for a grant, or share with someone you
know who is going through or recovering from cancer treatment. (Click here to
References
Allcott, H., Braghieri, L., Eichmeyer, S. and Gentzkow, M. (2020) ‘The welfare effects of social media’, American Economic Review, 110(3), pp. 629–676.
Marciano, L., Camerini, A.L. and Schulz, P.J. (2022) ‘The role of digital media use in adolescent wellbeing’, Current Opinion in Psychology, 44, pp. 45–50.
Riehm, K.E. et al. (2020) ‘Associations between social media use and mental health’, JAMA Psychiatry, 77(12), pp. 1266–1273.
Sohn, S.Y., Rees, P., Wildridge, B. et al. (2021) ‘Prevalence of problematic smartphone usage and mental health outcomes’, BMC Psychiatry, 21(1).
Syvertsen, T. and Enli, G. (2020) Digital Detox: Media Resistance and the Promise of Authenticity. Palgrave Macmillan.
Enjoy reading this?
Join our newsletter today!