In today’s society, it can seem impossible to escape the screens. Between doomscrolling, online classes, and the constant notifications popping up on your phone, students are spending more time online now than ever before. Phones, laptops, and more have become essential tools for communication, school, and entertainment. As screen time seems to rise, intentional breaks from the devices and discovering what unplugging does, we can see the many benefits.
One of the biggest benefits of taking a screen break is improved mental clarity. Overexposure to screens fills the brain with information, notifications, and visual stimulation. Over time, we can feel weaker, gain a shorter attention span, and struggle to focus. Taking time away from the devices can allow our brains to rest. Without the constant flow of updates, students find it easier to concentrate, think clearly, and stay in the moment. Walking away from the screens allows our brains to do a proper reset. Taking in a smaller amount of screens each day helps our minds slow down and improves our memory and problem-solving skills.
Screens are one of the biggest problems for people getting a good night’s sleep. The blue light reflected from our phones and laptops messes with our body’s natural sleep cycle, which makes the brain stay more alert instead of winding down. Limiting screen time in the afternoon is very smart because it allows our bodies to fall asleep faster and at the appropriate time. Replacing the nighttime doomscroll with reading, journaling, or stretching can help create a healthier bedtime schedule. As time passes, these habits become more helpful, and gaining sleep will become easier, which is what every college student needs.
Regular exposure to social media leads to comparison, overstimulation, and anxiety. A screen break gives students time to reflect and reconnect with their inner emotions without the influence of social media. Disconnecting from the digital world or likes, comments, and online chaos can boost self-esteem and help gain happiness. Taking time offline can encourage mindfulness and help our bodies become more present in the moment. Without the screens, students can now enjoy real-world experiences and become involved with genuine connections and happiness. Small breaks from the digital world help students create a balance and help them stay calm during the day.
While social media can help people stay connected, it also makes relationships lack depth. Authentic interactions are created when people put down their phones and have face-to-face conversations. The conversations can become deeper, and friendships can feel more personal. Unplugging allows students to be more engaged with their surroundings. Whether it’s talking to friends at the dining hall or meeting someone new at a campus event, being present helps create more genuine relationships. Over time, connections can give emotional support that online interaction can never replace.
It is not a surprise that fewer distractions can lead to a more productive day. A screen detox can allow students to use their time and focus on working on creative projects. Without many interruptions from notifications or social media, more things can be done efficiently and better. Creative thinking can come without input from the internet. When the mind is not busy reacting to information, it has time to generate new ideas. Whether it is writing, drawing, or making new goals, some students say that time offline can gain new inspiration.
The greatest benefit of a screen break is noticing what life really feels like without a digital view. Life without screens helps students appreciate small moments and really live in the moment. A walk to class, a conversation with a friend, or silence helps encourage people to be grateful for the environment around them. College life is fast-paced, so taking the time to disassociate with the online world helps students recharge mentally and emotionally. For students who are struggling to focus, unplugging may be the best decision they can make.