- Social media addiction is a growing concern in Nigeria, with platforms like Instagram and TikTok consuming significant daily hours
- A digital detox is essential to manage excessive screen time
- Here are practical tips to manage screen time amidst social media addiction
Social media has become integral to our lives in today's hyperconnected world. From TikTok videos to Instagram reels, the average Nigerian engages daily with digital content.
While social media offers endless entertainment and information, its overuse can lead to serious mental, physical, and emotional challenges.
If you’ve ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through Instagram or checking your phone during meals, you’re not alone.
TheRadar has compiled some practical tips to help you manage your screen time.
Why you need a digital detox
Recognising the impacts of excessive screen time is the first step toward change, as it can lead to several problems, including:
1. Mental health strain: Social media often creates anxiety, stress, and FOMO (Fear of Missing Out) as we compare our lives to curated highlights of others.
2. Productivity loss: Spending hours scrolling can eat into time meant for personal growth, work, or family.
3. Physical effects: Prolonged screen exposure can cause eye strain, headaches, and poor posture.
4. Sleep disruption: Screen blue light interferes with sleep patterns, making it harder to fall and stay asleep.
Signs you need a digital detox
You might need a break from your devices if:
- You frequently lose track of time on social media.
- You feel anxious or irritable when away from your phone.
- Your relationships or responsibilities are being neglected.
- You experience physical discomfort like headaches or sleeplessness.
Tips for managing screen time
1. Start with daily limits: Track your screen usage using tools like Screen Time (iOS) or Digital Wellbeing (Android). These apps show how much time you spend on each platform and let you set daily limits. Allocate an hour daily for social media and stick to it.
2. Create no-phone zones: Designate specific areas of your home, like the bedroom, toilet, or dining table, as phone-free zones. This encourages meaningful interactions with family and friends. Replace your phone alarm with a traditional clock to keep devices out of your bedroom.
3. Turn off push notifications: Constant notifications can make it hard to resist checking your phone. Disable unnecessary alerts to reduce distractions. You’ll find that you only reach for your phone when necessary.
4. Schedule "screen-free" hours: Set specific daily hours for offline activities. For example, you could dedicate 7-9 PM to reading, exercising, or spending quality time with loved ones.
5. Engage in offline activities: Rediscover hobbies or start new ones that don’t involve screens. Try cooking, journaling, gardening, or attending in-person events.
6. Use social media strategically: Instead of mindless scrolling, log in with a purpose. Whether networking on LinkedIn or learning a new skill on YouTube, focus on activities that add value to your life.
7. Follow the 20-20-20 rule: Protect your eyes by practicing the 20-20-20 rule: Every 20 minutes, look at something 20 feet away for 20 seconds. This reduces eye strain and helps reset your focus.
8. Take a social media sabbatical: Consider taking breaks from social media, starting with a single day and gradually increasing the duration. Taking social media sabbaticals makes you feel more productive and less stressed.
Benefits of a digital detox
Reducing screen time offers several benefits:
- Improved mental health: You’ll feel less anxious and more present.
- Better relationships: Spending quality time with loved ones strengthens bonds.
- Increased productivity: Focus on tasks that matter without constant distractions.
- Enhanced physical well-being: Enjoy better sleep, reduced eye strain, and improved posture.
Managing your screen time isn’t about completely disconnecting but creating healthier habits.
With these tips, you can enjoy the benefits of social media without letting it control your life.
Start small by setting daily limits or creating no-phone zones, and gradually expand your efforts. A digital detox might be the refresh you need to live a more balanced and fulfilling life.
5 tips to reduce your toddler’s screen time
In an earlier report, TheRadar compiled 5 activities to reduce a toddler's screen time. Limiting a toddler’s screen time can be done easily by incorporating indoor and outdoor activities into their daily lives.
The activities include sorting, painting, treasure hunt, bubble wrap popping, and playing with household items.