WE NEED DIGITAL DETOXES
The very platforms we once celebrated as ways to connect with others have, paradoxically,
become crutches for social avoidance.
By Philip Janet Kavutha
Let me guess: you have questioned the value of social media, and more often than not, you
conclude it is doing more harm than good. That impulse to delete the social media apps and
“lock in” on your real life? It’s not just you; it is a universal modern experience!
I am no exception; I’ve actually hit that uninstall button myself. Why, you ask? Simply because
TikTok stopped feeling valuable. It was no longer the learning platform I once appreciated
(though I acknowledge it still serves the purpose for many). Instead, my feed turned into a stream
of mediocre, average, distracting, and baffling content. For someone like me, who is easily
affected by unrequested opinions and constant rumination, it created a harmful cycle.
As stated in Genesis 2:18, “Then the LORD God said, ‘It is not good for the man to be alone’…”
This powerful, ancient observation underscores that humans are made for a community. The
digital world often twists this idea, offering the illusion of connection while fostering a reality of
profound solitude.
The very platforms we once celebrated as ways to connect with others have, paradoxically,
become crutches for social avoidance. We’ve all witnessed it and likely lived it: those quiet
gatherings with friends where everyone is glued to their screen, or the café where a table of
friends are each scrolling through a separate digital world. This isn’t just casual observations.
studies indicate a significant shift, where social media is increasingly used for “mindless
browsing” to fill time, rather than for genuine connection.
For individuals who tend to overthink and receive unsolicited opinions, this environment is
particularly toxic. The never-ending stream of perfect images fuels detrimental comparisons,
eroding the very confidence needed for self-expression. At the same time, the anonymity of the
digital space opens the door for a flood of unfiltered views and opinions that can paralyze a
vulnerable mind. Our phones have become a convenient shelter, but in choosing to hide within
them, we are quietly forfeiting the messy, beautiful, and essential practice of interacting in
person.
To sum up, I strongly propose a digital detox, which has hindered creativity, social interactions,
self-expression, confidence, security, and has promoted self-doubt and mind-rotting. Even
though social media can and is being used to improve digital skills, which are necessary for
today’s fast-paced world, mindful use of digital tools should be considered, not only by the youth
but also, by the older generation, who tend to gaslight themselves that they are less affected while
they’re drowning in mindless social media consumption.
Doom scrolling and binge watching have made today' s world a less productive one, and a
generation with decreased intelligence for not exploring the true world’s physical experience and
nature, both for physical health and stress management, impactful social interaction, and
improved self-expression. Let’s disconnect and reconnect with what truly matters.
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