1-800-633-5599 ( TTD / TTY )
few days to several months .
• When you disconnect , you are more able to live in the present . Logging off means focusing on the present rather than stressing about tomorrow . It also allows you to reconnect with the people and world around you . We use our cell phones to distract us and , in some cases , act as a security blanket . When we have our heads down glued to a screen , we miss a lot . Disconnecting can be great for our mental health , even if it is just for an evening out with friends or family . Without as many disruptions , your brain can also concentrate much better on tasks .
• It reduces unhealthy comparisons . Social media addiction can cause unnecessarily stressful and unpleasant emotions . In fact , one in three people feels worse after visiting Facebook . They become envious of others ’ picture-perfect lives and dissatisfied with their own , creating feelings of jealousy and self-doubt . Someone else is always cooler , prettier or traveling somewhere you ’ ve always wanted to go . When you unplug , it will help you focus on real life and help you realize that the social media world is glamourized and shot through the lens of filters that create unrealistic expectations . Disconnecting can help us find a more realistic version of happiness in life .
• Allows for improved sleep . The negative / stressful feelings from being connected to social media can impact sleep . Light from computer or phone screens can actually stimulate our brains , making us feel more alert and awake , which is the opposite of what we need when trying to unwind . Unplugging a few hours before bedtime is a great way to ensure that you get sound and restful sleep .
• It allows you needed “ me time ”. Spending a few minutes daily without a screen or device can create an opportunity to sit quietly and allow you to assess how you are feeling . Even five minutes every day can help you feel more grounded and centered .
• Creates opportunities to get outside and be more physically active . Being physically active is good for our mental health . Being technology focused all the time has led to increased physical problems such as lower back and neck pain , sedentary related weight gain , vision problems , etc . Putting your phone down and starting to move can be a factor in improving how you feel .
Do you need a digital detox ?
If you find using your smartphone or digital device is causing any of the following , it might be time to disconnect :
• Depressed mood , increased irritability , frustration or anger .
• Feeling insecure .
• Loss of sleep or interrupted sleep .
• Feeling obligated to respond , react or check in .
If you decide you are ready to do a digital detox , here are some simple steps to follow :
1 . Figure out which activities you want to reduce or eliminate .
2 . Set a goal for yourself based on whether you ’ d like to reduce or eliminate the use of a certain device or type of media ; be specific as to time of day and length of your goal .
3 . Make a time commitment ; plan to commit to at least two weeks .
4 . Gather support ; share your goals with supportive people to encourage you and provide accountability . 5 . Assess your progress . 6 . Notice the benefits and barriers you experienced during the digital detox . Doing the digital detox is about taking charge of how you spend your time and energy and what you give your attention to .
Disconnecting or completing a digital detox is an easy way to prioritize your mental health . You deserve it , and your brain will thank you .
As your local community mental health center , Adanta is available to help with mental health and substance use , prevention and advocacy services . To learn more about Adanta ’ s services please visit our website , www . adanta . org or call 1-800-954-4782 . Adanta is a participating provider in the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline and offers crisis services 24 / 7 by calling 1-800-633-5599 .
Adanta Community Mental Health Center is Ready to Help !
If you are searching for help or would like more information about services , call toll free 1.800.954.4782 x 0 , visit Adanta ’ s website at www . adanta . org , or Adanta ’ s Facebook page at www . facebook . com / The . Adanta . Group . Adanta has been serving the Lake Cumberland area since 1967 , delivering quality services to meet the needs of the people served . “ Enhancing Lives ” is the Purpose of the organization , and serves as the beacon for being a great community partner and resource through its services , programs , outreach , and presence in the Lake Cumberland and surrounding counties .**
Adanta is CARF accredited in Adult , Child , & Adolescent Outpatient Treatment ; Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs ; Adult Mental Health Crisis Intervention and Crisis Stabilization ; and Adult , Child , and Adolescent Mental Health and Alcohol and Other Drugs ; and Prevention .
** Outpatient Clinics are located in the counties of Adair , Barren , Casey , Clinton , Green , McCreary , Pulaski , Russell , Taylor , and Wayne .
The Adanta Group , a contractor with the Department for Behavioral Health , Developmental and Intellectual Disabilities and the Cabinet for Health and Family Services , provides behavioral health / substance use services with state and federal funds .
The Adanta Group
CRISIS
CENTER AND 24 HOUR
HOTLINE
1-800-633-5599 ( TTD / TTY )
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May 2023 SEKY - Life in Southeast Kentucky • 35