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| Is Quitting Social Media and Internet Good for Mental Health? |
In an era where scrolling is second nature, it’s easy to forget that constant connectivity is still a relatively new phenomenon. Social media and internet have reshaped how we communicate, work, and even define ourselves. Yet, beneath convenience lies an uncomfortable truth: rising cases of anxiety, depression, and burnout are increasingly linked to excessive online activity.
So, big question emerges: is quitting social media and internet ultimate solution for mental health? Or is reality more nuanced?
Social media platforms are not neutral. They are designed with neuropsychological engineering in mind built to keep you scrolling, engaging, and returning. Algorithms track user behavior, optimize feeds for maximum attention, and create dopamine loops similar to gambling.
- Dopamine Triggers: Notifications, likes, and comments act as micro-rewards, conditioning brain to seek constant validation.
- Sleep Disruption: Late night scrolling interferes with melatonin production, reducing sleep quality.
- Cognitive Fragmentation: Switching between multiple feeds and apps weakens focus and deep thinking.
Liberation or Isolation?
From a mental health standpoint, quitting social media can bring immediate relief. Without endless comparison to curated highlight reels, self esteem often improves. Anxiety linked to constant connectivity fear of missing out (FOMO), online harassment, or news overload can also decrease.
However, flip side is isolation. Many people rely on social media for social support, career networking, or simply staying updated with friends and global events. For some, quitting entirely can lead to loneliness and disconnection.
Paradox is clear: social media is both cause and cure, depending on how it’s used.
Critically, quitting internet altogether is not just about willpower. In modern economies, access to digital platforms is a requirement, not a luxury. Job applications, education, healthcare systems, and even government services often require online engagement.
From a systemic viewpoint, telling people to “just quit” ignores digital dependency built into society. Challenge isn’t just personal self control it’s a structural issue where opting out means exclusion from opportunities.
So, would quitting social media and internet improve mental health? answer is both yes and no. Yes, because it disrupts toxic patterns and reduces overstimulation. No, because society is too dependent on digital infrastructures for quitting to be practical.
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