How To Prevent Digital Burnout

Digital detox, but make it daily! From blocking bad vibes to setting screen limits, here’s how to keep your online space as refreshing as a green smoothie.

These days, our lives are inextricably linked with the internet, and that means that wellness isn't just about drinking a green smoothie every morning and doing some relaxation yoga at night: wellness has gone digital.

Okay, but how exactly do you manage your online wellbeing right now? Here are a few things to get you started:

A Little Paranoia Goes a Long Way

Ever notice that you’re suddenly following a bunch of weird fitness influencers or getting DMs about some “amazing crypto opportunity”? If so, you might be seeing one of the key signs your Instagram is hacked. Other red flags include login notifications from cities you’ve never visited or finding posts you definitely didn’t share. To keep intruders out, start with a strong, unique password (no more “password123”) and enable two-factor authentication. Because nothing says “hands off” like a good old security code.

Limit the Doomscrolling

We’ve all been there: one minute, you’re checking a notification, and the next, you’re 45 minutes into a scrolling spiral. Endless bad news and hot takes can zap your mood faster than you can say “just one more swipe.” Try setting time limits on social media apps, or switch to following accounts that uplift, entertain, or educate you for enhanced wellbeing. There’s a big difference between reading about puppies vs. catching up on every crisis in the world – one feels good; the other...not so much.

 Take Control of Your Notifications (or Silence Them Completely)

Nothing kills a good mood faster than constant pings from apps you don’t even remember downloading. Notifications are like digital mosquitoes, always there, buzzing in your ear. Customize your settings to only get alerts from things that truly matter, or go on a notification diet and silence everything for a while. Spoiler alert: the world doesn’t end when you stop checking your phone every five minutes.

Unfollow, Unfriend, and Block

This is your reminder that you don’t have to follow everyone you know. If someone’s posts make you feel stressed, annoyed, or just plain exhausted, it’s okay to hit unfollow. Curating your online space is like decorating your home; it should feel welcoming and positive. So, go ahead and Marie Kondo your feed – if it doesn’t spark joy, it’s gotta go.

Not Everyone Needs to See Your Lunch

Check your privacy settings on social media and adjust who can see your stuff. Remember, just because you enjoy documenting every latte art masterpiece doesn’t mean the whole world needs access to your content. Keep it friends-only, or at least prevent randoms from creeping through years of your photos. It’s a small tweak, but it’s a major mood booster.

Digital Detox Days – Yes, It’s Possible

Consider taking a day (or even an afternoon) off from your screens. Set up an auto-reply, let your friends know you’ll be MIA, and just… disconnect. Spend time in the real world without worrying about likes, retweets, or DMs. A little break can do wonders for your mental health, helping you recharge and come back to your digital life with fresh eyes.

Here’s to a healthy, balanced, online life!