How Participating in ‘Phone-Free’ February Could Reset Your Health

The latest trend sweeping the nation is Phone-Free February, a global campaign challenging individuals to ditch their smartphones for a full 28 days in an effort to improve mental health. With Americans spending an average of five hours a day on their phones and checking them 205 times per day, experts agree that practicing smartphone restraint can have a positive impact.

Psychologist Susan Albers-Bowling from the Cleveland Clinic’s Wooster Family Health Center explains that even a short break from smartphones can work wonders for mental health. Research shows that digital detoxes can reduce stress, decrease depression and anxiety, improve sleep, and boost mindfulness. Even just one week off from your phone can significantly reduce stress levels, and a three-day break can lead to significant benefits.

For those looking to participate in Phone-Free February but find the idea of giving up their smartphone entirely daunting, there’s also the option to try the Phoneflex challenge, which encourages cutting back and being more intentional about smartphone use. Making gradual changes, such as reducing social media use to just 30 minutes a day, can significantly boost wellbeing without triggering feelings of loneliness.

To cut back on smartphone use, experts recommend turning off non-essential notifications, using grayscale on your phone screen, and putting your phone in another room during meals and sleep. Other tips include putting barriers between yourself and your phone, deleting social media apps for at least 48 hours before reinstalling, and using a password instead of face ID. Tracking your smartphone usage, replacing scrolling with other habits, and reaching out to people via calling, emailing, or writing a card are also helpful strategies.

The addictive nature of smartphones, with their dings, buzzes, and likes, can act like a slot machine for the brain, rewarding certain behaviors and encouraging constant phone checking. By participating in Phone-Free February or simply cutting back on smartphone use, individuals are likely to feel less stressed and more focused, leading to overall improved mental health come March.

So, whether you decide to fully commit to Phone-Free February or simply make small changes to reduce your smartphone use, the benefits for your mental health are clear. Give it a try and see how disconnecting from your phone can lead to a healthier, more mindful lifestyle.