Time to log off: The psychological importance of a digital detox

Last year, recognising the importance of disconnecting for the day, founder and managing director of Scriba PR, Katie Mallinson, introduced an annual ‘digital detox day’ to our growing list of employee benefits. Here are five reasons why this emerging trend is worth your while…

Reducing stress 

The constant barrage of notifications, emails, and social media updates can be overwhelming and, in many cases, can lead to heightened stress levels. Taking that digital break allows us to disconnect from the constant stimulation and reduce anxiety. 

Improving focus

Our devices and social media platforms, by their very design, are intended to capture our attention, which can be distracting. Digital detoxing helps improve focus by giving our brains a break from the constant diversions and allowing us to concentrate better on the tasks at hand. Even if that task is simply being more present.

Enhancing relationships 

Time spent on our devices can often detract from the time we spend with those closest to us. The act of switching off in favour of bonding allows us to be present in the moment and engage in face-to-face conversations — strengthening relationships that are most important to us. 

Promoting better sleep 

The all-too-familiar blue light emitted from our devices can very easily disrupt our sleep patterns, leading to fatigue and deprivation, which, in turn, results in myriad side effects such as irritability, loss of focus, lack of memory retention, slowed reaction times, headaches. 

Avoiding reaching for the devices before bed boosts the overall quality of our REM cycles and produce better overall health. 

Boosting creativity 

Finally, taking a break from the constant stream of information can give our minds the space to be creative and come up with fresh ideas — a welcome bonus at Scriba HQ. 

So, give it a go, take a break from your screens, and embrace the benefits of ‘switching off’.