Feel like you’re glued to your phone? You’re not alone.
The average American adult spends over two hours daily on social media, while teens rack up double that on TikTok and Instagram.
With experts raising concerns about the addictive nature of social platforms, interest in “social media detox” has skyrocketed.
Google searches for the term have surged by 60% in recent months.
But does stepping away from your feed actually help? According to researchers, the answer is a resounding yes.
Brain Rot
Oxford University Press even declared “brain rot” the word of the year, reflecting growing concerns over excessive screen time.
Anna Lembke, addiction expert and author of Dopamine Nation, explains that social media manipulates the brain’s reward system, much like drugs do.
What Happens When You Leave it?
Research shows even brief breaks improve mental health, self-esteem, and sleep.
Expect withdrawal symptoms like anxiety at first, but they fade. Having a “detox buddy” can make it easier.
“Once people got into a groove, most enjoyed it,” says researcher Sarah Woodruff.
