How Reducing Social Media Improves Mental Health: In today’s digital era, scrolling social media has become a daily habit of people. People spend hours checking updates on Instagram, watching TikTok videos or replying to messages on WhatsApp, without realizing how much impact it is having on their mental health. Social media helped keep people connected during the Corona epidemic, but now experts believe that excessive screen time can cause more harm than good. For this reason, many researches are also coming out on this.
What came out in the research?
A study conducted at a mental health research and treatment center in Germany, led by Dr. Julia Bryullovskaya, revealed a simple but effective solution: reduce the time spent on social media and replace it with physical activity. According to research, if a person uses social media less every day for just 30 minutes and uses that time for exercise, then a big improvement in mental health can be seen. This effect is not limited to a few days, but can persist for months.
What was the result of the research?
642 people were included in this study, who were divided into different groups. One group reduced social media by 30 minutes a day, the other increased physical activity by the same amount of time, the third adopted both changes, while one group made no changes to their routine. The participants’ mood, stress, happiness and life satisfaction were measured for two weeks. The results were clear that people who reduced social media or increased exercise started feeling happier, satisfied and less depressed. Less symptoms of depression were also seen in them, whereas those who adopted both the habits together got the most benefit.
Read this also- Painkiller Side Effects: Do painkillers really damage organs? Know in what quantity is it appropriate to consume them?
What do experts say?
According to research experts, excessive use of social media sometimes creates addictive behavior. Constant notifications, comparison with others and viewing negative content can increase feelings of anxiety and insecurity. This became a support during the pandemic, but over time it also became a cause of mental fatigue. At the same time, physical activity proves to be very beneficial for mental health. Walking, running, yoga or light stretching also releases hormones in the body that improve mood, reduce stress and increase energy.
The special thing about this study was that its benefits persisted for a long time. Even after six months, participants saw less social media use and more physical activity, especially among those who had adopted both changes.
Read this also- Metabolic Diseases In India: Metabolic diseases are spreading rapidly in India, are you also a victim of it?
Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
