American and Canadian scientists have discovered an unexpected and very simple way to improve mental health. Special methods, expensive programs, or complex methods are not required for this. It's enough to simply turn off the internet on your mobile phone for two weeks for a long time.
The research was published in the scientific journal PNAS Nexus. It was attended by 467 iPhone users with an average age of 32.
Scientists, not relying on the wishes of the participants, installed a special application that blocks mobile internet on all their phones. At the same time, the main functions of the phone - the ability to make calls, send SMS, and take photos and videos - were retained. But social networks and the possibility of unlimited scrolling have been completely closed.
Before the start of the experiment, the participants spent an average of five hours a day on the phone and underwent a special test to assess their psycho-emotional state.
The results surprised scientists as well
After two weeks, most participants reported feeling happy and at peace. Their level of life satisfaction has increased significantly.
The results of attention and concentration tests were particularly impressive: their indicators were equated to the restoration of cognitive functions, which usually decrease over a decade.
At the same time, screen time has decreased from five hours per day to three hours. Participants spent their free time with their families, taking more walks, exercising, and socializing. Sleep duration increased by an average of 17 minutes.
According to the study's authors, the result of temporary internet distancing was even higher than the effect usually observed when taking antidepressants.
Why is this useful?
The continuous flow of information, notifications, and constant online presence create a sense of endless racing in the brain. This increases anxiety, reduces attention, and can ultimately lead to depression and social isolation. Restricting internet access reduces digital strain. The brain gains the ability to "reboot," restore attention, and reduce stress levels.
Only 25 percent of participants managed to fully endure two weeks without mobile internet. The rest sought ways to circumvent the constraints. At the same time, from time to time, positive changes were also noted in "rule violators."
Is it worth trying?
Abandoning the internet for a long time is not an easy task. But research shows that even short-term digital restrictions can significantly improve emotions and attention. Perhaps through these two weeks, we can understand how much we've become attached to permanent online connectivity and whether we really need it.
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