Jessica Elefante, a former digital media consultant, experienced brain fog and memory loss from excessive online activity.
Screen time, especially on social media, can disrupt sleep and impact psychological health, leading to symptoms resembling dementia.
In 2011, Elefante identified her screen time as the cause of her symptoms during an eight-day digital detox in Hawaii.
She recommends a 24-hour digital detox for a mental reset and to recognize personal triggers for online engagement.
Elefante advises setting specific days to check social media, checking platforms like Instagram only once every three days.
Meaningful swaps for smartphone activities, such as reading physical books or engaging in hobbies, help fill the void left by reduced screen time.
Getting comfortable with saying no to constant online engagement is crucial in setting boundaries and maintaining a healthier balance.
Elefante emphasizes the ongoing struggle but underscores the importance of prioritizing mental well-being over constant connectivity.