5 Tips to Reduce Social Media Use

Do you feel overwhelmed by the amount of information you consume on social media? Are you struggling to stay present? Do you scroll for hours on social media? If yes, this blog is for you. I will give you five tips to reduce social media use.

There are benefits to social media; however, there are risks too. Research has found that social media negatively impacts our mental health. Social media is causing anxiety and stress for many. Therefore, assessing and changing your social media usage can increase your well-being.

5 Tips to Reduce Social Media Use

Tip #1 to reduce Social Media use: Get Rid of 1-2 Social Media Apps

There are so many social media apps! Therefore, for some- it is overwhelming to check and post on multiple platforms. If this is you- consider ridding of one.

Tip #2 to reduce Social Media use: Use social media on a desktop or laptop.

Taking social media apps off your phone will reduce your temptation to open an app. Check social media on a desktop or laptop.

I get it- when it comes to posting social media on your phone is easiest. Solution: have social media app on your phone one to two days a week to post.

Tip #3 to reduce Social Media Use: Schedule time for social media

Set a schedule for when you will be on social media. First, decide how often in the day you want to check social media and for how long. Then, check your social media at the times you have chosen. Also, keep a timer letting you know when your time is up.

Tip #4 to reduce Social Media Use: Take a social media sabbath one day a week

Pick one day a week when you do not go on social media. There is so much noise in our minds. Therefore, taking a day to be intentional and have quiet time is needed.

This tip will be hard for most. You can work toward this and make it a goal.

Tip #5 to reduce Social Media Use: Replace the urge to use social media with a life-enhancing activity

With any addiction, you want to replace the addictive behavior with positive behavior. Create a list of activities you can do when tempted to be on social media.

Replace Social Media Use with Prayer and Meditation on Scripture

Are you spending more time on social media than in the Word? Be honest. There have been days I wasted my time scrolling when I could’ve been praying.

You are never wasting your time when you spend it with God. Being in the presence of the Lord brings joy. Therefore, find ways to increase your time with God.

“You make known to me the path of life; in your presence, there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.” Psalm 16:11

I started to implement this tip and have noticed positive changes. My relationship with Christ, wisdom, and knowledge of God are growing. I have experienced increased peace, joy, and rest.

“You keep him in perfect peace whose mind is stayed on you, because he trusts in you.” Isaiah 26:3

How

I pick a scripture to read and meditate on throughout the day. My Bible is open in the room I am in the most- the kitchen. When I have the urge to pick up my phone, I either read the scripture I have chosen, say a silent prayer, thank God for something in my life, or do all three.

How Reducing Social Media will Benefit your Mental Health

I have noticed that I was spending too much time on social media. My anxiety and stress increased. When I started implementing the tips I discussed and saw a significant change in my overall well-being.

Positive Changes I saw for myself when reducing Social Media Use

Reduced anxiety and stress
Ability to focus better
Increased productivity
Ability to be more present in my relationships
Increased Contentment
Increased joy by increasing time with the Lord

In conclusion, reducing your social media use can be a positive thing in your life. Take the time to assess your social media use, and be honest with yourself if changes are needed. You can start implementing one or two tips or all the tips discussed. Take action today.