Social media can be such a double edged sword these days. While it’s great for keeping in touch with people and staying on top of the latest news, there’s also a dark side to all that scrolling and liking. When social media practically becomes an addiction, it’s time to reassess your priorities. Here are 5 signs it’s time to take a break from social media
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You Pick Up Your Phone To Scroll Without Realizing It
If you find yourself on autopilot, repeatedly picking up your phone to open your social accounts and scroll, it’s definitely time to take a break. When scrolling through our feeds feels like an involuntary impulse it’s a sign that a habit has formed. Make a point to be conscious of when you’re picking up your phone to check your social feeds. You may find you’re doing it more than you’d like.
Your Profile Consists of Mostly Selfies
We’re all about self confidence, but a social feed full of selfies is a sign that you’re on social media too much and that you’re relying on it for affirmation. Social media can really mess with your self-esteem and for many it fills a void, so next time you find yourself snapping a selfie, reach out to chat with a friend instead. Making a real connection will make you feel better in the long run.
You’re Not Sleeping Well
It’s well known that the blue light emitted from our phones causes sleeplessness and insomnia. If you often use social media while lying in bed at night and find you can’t sleep, it may be from using your phone. Instead, put your phone away at least 30 minutes before bed time.
You’re Feeling Anxious and/or Depressed
Social media is the perfect platform for comparing yourself to others and that is never a good thing. What we see on social media is often not the full story. Picture perfect Instagram feeds never display the hard times a person may be going through. So, if you find yourself feeling depressed or anxious after using social media, it’s probably time for a break.
You Stalk Random People For No Reason
If you find yourself going down a rabbit hole of your ex’s new girlfriend’s ex boyfriend’s sister’s social feed, it’s time to back up the bus. You have to ask yourself why you’re looking at photos of people you don’t know or care about. Imagine all the other things you could be doing with that time!
Time For a Detox?
While social media can help us stay connected, like anything else, it’s best used in moderation. If you’re doing any of the above, consider a “social media detox.” It doesn’t have to be 30 days long or anything severe, but making small changes each day such as setting time limits and hours on when you look at your feeds can make a big difference.
