How did a 16-year-old overcome social media addiction?

The teen underwent Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and a 30-day social media blackout, gradually replacing digital engagement with real-world activities and mindfulness.

What are the signs of social media withdrawal?

Withdrawal symptoms can include physical sensations like itching and trembling, anxiety, irritability, and difficulty sleeping, as the brain seeks dopamine hits.

How does a digital detox help with mental health?

A digital detox can reduce anxiety and depressive symptoms, improve sleep and focus, and shift self-worth from external online validation to internal validation.

Home / Health / Teen Escapes Social Media Trap, Finds Real Life

Teen Escapes Social Media Trap, Finds Real Life

30 Jan

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Summary

16-year-old spent nine hours daily on social media.
Digital detox involved a 30-day social media blackout.
Recovery saw reduced anxiety, improved sleep, and focus.

Teen Escapes Social Media Trap, Finds Real Life

A 16-year-old's life was dominated by social media, with at least nine hours spent daily creating and consuming content. This immersion led to a plummeting academic performance, irritability, and sleep disturbances, as his self-worth became tied to online likes and views.

He developed social anxiety and depression, trapped in a cycle of seeking digital validation. Treatment involved Cognitive Behaviour Therapy and a negotiated 30-day social media blackout to allow withdrawal symptoms to subside and stabilize stress hormones.

Initial withdrawal was challenging, marked by physical symptoms like itching and anxiety. The teen began journaling and noticing his surroundings, replacing virtual engagement with mindful observation and outdoor activities.