Healthy online habits
Being connected all the time can be helpful, but it can also take a toll on your sleep, focus and stress levels — especially if you’re regularly seeing upsetting news, online arguments or constant notifications. Looking after your mental wellbeing is just as important as staying safe online.
Simple ways to protect your wellbeing
- Set screen-time boundaries, such as putting your phone away at a certain time in the evening
- Use “Do Not Disturb” or “Focus Mode” on your phone to reduce interruptions
- Unfollow or mute accounts that regularly make you feel anxious, angry or overwhelmed
- Take regular breaks from news or social media feeds, especially during stressful times
- Make space for offline activities like walking, hobbies, meeting friends or volunteering. Great local options include:
- Mindful use of technology can help you feel more in control, rather than constantly reacting to notifications or negative content.
Helpful tools and resources
- NHS – Digital wellbeing advice - NHS guidance on managing screen time, sleep and mental wellbeing.
- Mind - Practical advice on managing stress, anxiety and the impact of social media.
- Headspace - Guided meditation and mindfulness exercises to support stress and sleep.
- Forest app - Encourages focused phone-free time by helping you build healthy habits.
- ScreenZen - Helps you reduce mindless scrolling and set intentional phone use goals.
