You've heard this one before, but unplugging for a little each day is good for you, but it's not always easy in a world that seems to require constant digital connection and awareness. Kristi Stuckwisch, MSW, LCSW, an instructor at Arizona State University in Phoenix, AZ, emphasizes that forming the habit of taking digital breaks is important for your ongoing physical and mental health, especially because social media use often means falling into the trap of comparing yourself with your digital friends.
"The number one hack that I'd recommend is to reduce the amount of comparison you do with others. If that means reducing social media time, saying thank you to compliments from others, starting a mindfulness practice, reducing time with negative people, recognizing your inner critic that likes to remind you of your flaws and fears, or starting a daily gratitude journal, do at least one thing to start combating this parasite."
