One Phone Hack That Can Boost Your Mental Health
It may feel like the internet is our best friend, always ready with answers at our fingertips. But did you know that constantly being online can actually harm your brain? Studies show that excessive internet use can reduce focus, weaken memory, and even contribute to anxiety and depression.
However, new research suggests that taking a short break from the internet for just two weeks can make your brain feel 10 years younger.
The Study: What Happens When You Ditch the Internet for Two Weeks?
A team of researchers conducted a study involving 467 participants, aged 18 to 74, to understand the effects of constant internet access. In today’s world, where more than 90% of people own smartphones, we are always connected, which is a relatively recent lifestyle shift.
To track how this affects well-being, researchers measured mood, mental health, and attention at the start, middle, and end of the two-week period. The results were astonishing:
- 91% of participants showed improvements in at least one area.
- 71% reported better mental health.
- 73% felt more positive overall.
Participants also answered a questionnaire commonly used to assess symptoms of depression and anxiety. Many reported that they felt more interested in daily activities and experienced fewer negative emotions.
Key Findings: How an Internet Detox Benefits the Brain
According to the study, disconnecting from the internet resulted in major improvements in mental health, focus, and overall well-being.
1. Boosted Attention and Focus
One of the most surprising findings was that participants’ attention span improved dramatically. After the two-week break, they performed significantly better on cognitive tasks. The researchers noted that this improvement was similar to the attention levels of someone 10 years younger.
2. Reduced Anxiety and Depression
The study found that symptoms of depression decreased as much as they would with certain antidepressant medications. This suggests that constant internet use may contribute to mental health struggles, while reducing screen time could help improve mood.
3. More Time for Meaningful Activities
Participants who unplugged from the internet didn’t just sit around bored they started engaging in healthier, more fulfilling activities. Many reported spending more time:
- Socializing with friends and family
- Engaging in hobbies like reading, painting, or playing music
- Exercising and spending time outdoors
- Getting better sleep
4. Less Digital Anxiety
People who struggled with FOMO (the fear of missing out) saw the biggest improvements in their mental health. Without the constant need to check notifications and social media, they felt more present and less anxious.
Why Does an Internet Break Work?
Taking a break from the internet doesn’t magically fix everything overnight. Instead, it allows your brain to reset. Without the constant flood of online information, your mind can relax, recharge, and refocus.
By disconnecting, you naturally start spending time on activities that improve mental health like socializing, exercising, and engaging in creative pursuits. This creates a positive cycle that boosts well-being over time.
Conclusion
While the researchers don’t suggest replacing medications or therapy with an internet detox, they do believe that cutting down on screen time has clear benefits. Even small changes like reducing social media use, setting phone-free hours, or turning off mobile internet can help improve focus, mood, and mental well-being.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
