Social media is a part of modern life. It has many positive benefits such as staying in touch with friends, promoting a business, and allowing you to keep up to date on the latest news. Although the benefits of social media are numerous, overuse can negatively affect your mental health and wellbeing. It is easy to consume yourself with the constant stream of social media posts and spend less time on self-care, physical exercise, and quality time with loved ones. It’s important to use social media safely and consider taking a break if you feel social media use is negatively impacting your life.
A social media break is a voluntary attempt at reducing or stopping social media use to improve your wellbeing. You decide how long the break is and what it will include. You can also choose to announce your break on social media or just simply step away. Here are some additional tips on how to start your social media break:
- Talk about your social media break with others. Be open and honest with your friends and family about how social media is affecting you and how taking a break is vital. They may even join you on your break.
- Turn off social media notifications. Take a few minutes before you officially start the break and change your social media notification settings. A break is almost impossible if you hear chimes and whistles from postings.
- Fill the void. You will have additional free time during your social media break. This is the perfect time to increase or improve your mental and physical health strategies. Read an inspiring book, go for walks with a loved one, work on a skill you’ve always wanted to learn, or simply dedicate more time to relaxation.
Your Employee Assistance Program Can Help
Your Component Employee Assistance Program (EAP) can provide support during your social media break. Your EAP is a good first call for any questions or concerns you might have about your mental health and wellbeing and can provide you with tips for helping your children navigate social media safely. EAP assistance is available for you and your eligible household members, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. For more information, contact your Component EAP, or send an email to worklife@hq.dhs.gov.