Study Finds Social Media Detox Offers Real Mental Health Benefits

Boston, MA — A new study published in JAMA Network Open found that limiting social media use can significantly reduce mental health symptoms among young adults. Researchers at Beth Israel Deaconess Medical Center in Boston conducted the study with nearly 400 participants aged 18 to 24.

During the initial two weeks of the study, participants used social media as usual while researchers collected data on their usage through a mobile app. At the end of this period, participants were asked to complete standardized mental health questionnaires assessing symptoms of depression, anxiety, insomnia, and loneliness.

Following this, 80% of participants opted to engage in a weeklong social media detox. The results were striking: researchers reported a 16% reduction in anxiety symptoms, a 24% decrease in depression, and a 14.5% reduction in insomnia symptoms after just one week of reduced social media interaction.

Dr. John Torous, the lead researcher, noted that these improvements are typically challenging to achieve in a short timeframe. He said, “It usually takes eight to 12 weeks of intensive psychotherapy to see those kinds of reductions in mental health symptoms.”

Interestingly, during the detox phase, participants reduced their social media use from about two hours a day to approximately 30 minutes, even though their total screen time remained constant. This highlights the specific impact of social media compared to screen time in general.

Dr. Elombe Conrad, a co-author of the study, emphasized the importance of these findings, stating that “the results mirror what we’ve heard from patients who attempt digital detoxes on their own.” He added that these changes offer meaningful mental health relief.

Experts suggest that individuals could benefit from setting specific limits on their social media usage, removing distracting apps from their home screens, and designating technology-free times, especially before bed. These changes can support better sleep and overall mental well-being.

While this study showcases substantial benefits from short breaks from social media, experts also recommend that those struggling with mental health concerns seek professional guidance.