Today is National Day of Unplugging which means it might be a good time to evaluate how much time we use our phones every day and work towards using it less if possible. Luckily, there are easy ways to do this on both iPhones and Androids.
We get it, your phone is awesome and you have it with you all the time! We are in the cellphone business so you would think we’d want to encourage you to be on your phone more but, there is such thing as too much of a good thing. Studies have shown that excess phone usage can lead to physical and mental health problems. As a result, it is a good idea to set some limits on how often you use your cellphone. This may seem easier said than done as it is so tempting to check in with family and friends on Facebook, doom scroll through Twitter, and see the latest trends on TikTok any chance you get. 71% of Americans say checking their phones is one of the first things they do when they wake up and more than half say they have never spent over 24 without their phones. Some people even report feeling anxious or lost without their phones with them experiencing what has been coined “nomophobia.” If this sounds like you, then you might want to keep reading.
If you’re an Apple user, you can utilize the Screen Time features. A lot of people may already be using Screen Time to limit the phone usage of their children but if you haven’t considered using it for yourself, you’re missing out. According to Apple, screen time allows you to “know how much time you and your kids spend on apps, websites, and more. This way, you can make more informed decisions about how you use your devices, and set limits if you'd like to.” Check out the Apple Support article for more information on Screen Time and how to set it up on your device HERE. Samsung devices have a similar set of features under Digital Wellbeing that give you the ability to monitor your usage and set limits on apps and even set timers. For more information about Samsung’s Digital Wellbeing features and how to use them, visit this LINK.
Another great way to unplug for today is to finally read that book you have been meaning to read or go for a walk. Even if you don’t stay off your phone the whole day, a break from using it, even a short one, can be monumentally beneficial. So, what are you waiting for? You’re at the end of the post so now is a good time to get off your phone, tablet, or computer and unplug for a little bit!
Sources
Daniyal, M., Javaid, S. F., Hassan, A., & Khan, M. A. B. (2022). The Relationship between Cellphone Usage on the Physical and Mental Wellbeing of University Students: A Cross-Sectional Study. International journal of environmental research and public health, 19(15), 9352. https://doi.org/10.3390/ijerph19159352
