Effect of Blocking Internet on Smartphone on Wellbeing

SOURCE www.npr.org
Researchers found that people who blocked the internet on their smartphones for two weeks experienced better mental health, subjective well-being, and sustained attention. Participants reported spending more time on activities like nature, socializing, and hobbies, leading to improved mood and attention. The study suggests that reducing internet time can have significant benefits on overall well-being.

Key Points

  • 91% of participants felt better after blocking the internet on their smartphones for two weeks
  • 71% reported better mental health and 73% reported better subjective well-being
  • The decrease in depressive symptoms was comparable to or greater than reductions seen with antidepressant medications
  • Improvement in attention span equivalent to participants becoming 10 years younger
  • Participants spent more time in nature, socializing, and doing hobbies when not using the internet on their phones

Pros

  • Improved mental health
  • Better subjective well-being
  • Enhanced sustained attention
  • Increased engagement in healthy behaviors like socializing, spending time in nature, and hobbies

Cons

  • Dependency on smartphones for daily tasks
  • Difficulty in completely disconnecting due to societal expectations