Amid the relentless pursuit of news and information on social media, life can seem to fade into the background and lose its vitality. That’s why mental health experts recommend taking a meaningful break from time to time, allowing us to preserve the things that truly matter and need to be protected. But how can we make that break more meaningful? We’ll find out in #UnboxingTheHate.
Social media can intensify anxiety and feelings of insecurity, while also triggering fear through the distressing emotions that may arise from negative news.
According to Healthline.com, there are 30 ways to successfully take a break from social media — potentially improving not only your mental health, but also your social life.
Here are 30 ways to step away from Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and other platforms:
If You Use Social Media to Unwind
- A walk down the street or around the block where you live
- Music
- Using scented candles or essential oils
- Reading a book
- Getting creative with crafts
- Cooking or baking
- Spending time with a pet, if you have one
- Practising yoga or meditation
- Enjoying a soothing hot drink, such as tea
- Looking through old photos and reminiscing about happy moments
If You Use Social Media to Connect with Other People
- Call a friend or family member — even better, make it a video call
- Invite someone over for dinner or drinks
- Bake something and share it with your neighbours, staying for a chat when you drop it off
- Organise a weekend brunch, hike or shopping trip with friends
- Using dating apps - not solely with the aim of finding a sexual partner
- Volunteering with an organisation
- Joining groups that attend classes
- Joining a community group, such as a church
- Try a goat yoga class - you’re almost guaranteed to leave with a smile
If You Use Social Media for Entertainment
- Going to a concert or a venue with live music
- Going to the theatre or cinema
- Taking up a hobby
- Learning to play a musical instrument
- Taking dance or martial arts classes
- Going hiking
- Visiting a museum
- Taking up gardening
- Listening to a podcast
- Reading a book
- Getting together with friends or family to play a board game
