In 2 weeks without social media, the brain rejuvenates by 10 years, benefits observed in all study subjects
How smartphone use affects our health
How much does smartphone use influence our health – both physical and mental? Naturally, there are numerous variables, but we now have an idea of how beneficial it is to avoid it. Some recent research indicates that a targeted break from digital technologies can produce tangible effects on cognitive abilities, mental well-being, and sleep quality, even in relatively short periods.
A study published in PNAS Nexus and reported by Corriere della Sera, conducted on a sample of 467 participants, analyzed the impact of using a device without smart functions continuously for two weeks. Participants maintained access to phone calls, SMS, and email (via PC), but gave up the entire smart component, including applications like Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, or Snapchat.
The results highlighted an improvement in cognitive performance comparable to a mental rejuvenation of about 10 years in all subjects. At the same time, a reduction in depressive symptoms was observed, in some cases with results even more effective than pharmacological therapies according to researchers.
One of the most interesting data points emerged after just one week: the average time spent in front of screens significantly decreased compared to initial levels. This suggests a quick adaptation to new habits, with a direct impact on daily time management.
A second study, published in JAMA Network Open and promoted by the American Medical Association, focuses instead on limiting the use of social networks. Reducing access to 30 minutes a day, compared to an average of about two hours, leads to a decrease in symptoms related to various disorders. The data indicates an average decrease of 24.8% in cases of depression, 16.1% for anxiety, and 14.5% for insomnia.
However, in this second case, the source of such benefits is not explained in detail. That they exist is beyond doubt, but the studies do not definitively clarify which are the determining factors. The most accredited hypotheses are an increase in live social interactions, greater involvement in non-digital activities, improved sleep quality, and the development of self-control.
Another question mark concerns the duration of the effects. There is still no certainty regarding the persistence of improvements in the long term. In this regard, a study conducted by Harvard researchers published in Pediatrics intervened. According to their findings, the benefits and their duration over time are quite variable depending on age, gender, and social context. Some groups may therefore be more exposed to "social damage" than others.
What emerges from all studies on the topic is that the so-called "digital detox" brings concrete and measurable benefits. However, further in-depth research is necessary to understand how lasting these benefits are and how they influence an individual's habits in the long term.