Actor turned talk show host Drew Barrymore is going on a social media detox this summer. Drew took to Instagram to share it with her followers that she’s temporarily trading in social media for “some adventures.”

Thanking her followers for making her feed a safe space, just like her talk show The Drew Barrymore Show, the 48-year-old wrote, “Last carousel for the summer… I want to thank everyone for making this feed such a loving place. A safe space like on the show. It’s just very humorous and kind. My two favorite things in this life”.

Calling her decision to take a social media break as “healthy for the soul” and something she used to do “all the time”, the actor wrote, “I’m going to take a social media break for the summer. I used to do it all the time. And it’s so healthy for the soul. I’m going to go on some adventures. See what I find.”

Drew also hinted that she would be back soon on social media to share experiences that she gathered in real life. The The Ever After – A Cinderella Story actor also announced the return of the fourth season of her talk show.

“No matter what I discover and stumble upon in this world … I do love sharing it. And I feel so lucky that we all can all be connected. Thank you to anyone who gives me space in their field. Ok. Now go out and have the summer of your life. I will be working on the next issue of @drewmagazine and … I’ll see you in the fall for @thedrewbarrymoreshow season 4!!!!!!!!!!!!!!,” she concluded her post.

Drew’s post was accompanied with a carousel of photos. The feature image was a black and white photo of Drew as a kid, sitting cross-legged on a chair and smiling innocently at the camera. The next picture contained the words, “It’s ok to disconnect for a while” reasserting the importance of taking out time for oneself in the hyperconnected age of social media.

The following photos were a compilation of memes, references to long-term friendships, a model sporting rainbow couture and a video of David Bowie allegedly predicting the future in 1999.

Drew Barrymore has always been outspoken about prioritising mental health and has also slammed tabloid culture. Drew started her career as a child artist and has faced constant media scrutiny, that can negatively affect one’s mental health.

Speaking with indianexpress.com, Dr Mazher Ali, psychiatrist, CARE Hospitals, Banjara Hills, Hyderabad said, “Social media detox, or taking a break from social media platforms, can have several positive effects on one’s mental and emotional well-being”.

Health benefits of social media detox

Below are health benefits of social media detox as shared by Dr Ali:

1. Reduces information overload: Social media platforms are filled with a constant stream of information, notifications, and updates. This overload can lead to cognitive fatigue and stress. Taking a break from social media helps in reducing information overload, allowing the mind to relax and rejuvenate.

2. Enhances mental health: Studies have found a correlation between excessive social media use and mental health issues such as anxiety, depression, loneliness, and poor self-esteem. Detoxing from social media can provide relief from the constant comparison, negative self-perception, and fear of missing out (FOMO), thereby improving overall mental health.

3. Boosts productivity and focus: Social media can be highly distracting, often leading to decreased productivity and difficulties in concentration. By disconnecting from social media, individuals can regain their focus, concentrate on tasks at hand, and improve their productivity levels.

4. Improves sleep patterns: The blue light emitted by electronic devices, coupled with the engaging content on social media, can disrupt sleep patterns. Using social media before bed can make it difficult to fall asleep and lead to poor sleep quality. Taking a break from social media before bedtime promotes better sleep hygiene and ensures more restful nights.

5. Encourages real-life connections: Spending excessive time on social media may lead to decreased face-to-face interactions and a decline in real-life social connections. Detoxing from social media allows individuals to invest more time in building meaningful relationships, strengthening personal connections, and engaging in activities that promote social interaction in the offline world.

6. Reduces stress and anxiety: Social media can be a breeding ground for stress and anxiety due to factors such as constant comparison, fear of missing out, cyberbullying, and the pressure to maintain a curated online persona. Taking a break from social media reduces exposure to these stressors, providing a much-needed relief and allowing individuals to focus on their own well-being.

7. Increases self-awareness and mindfulness: Constant scrolling on social media can create a sense of mindless browsing, where individuals become disconnected from their own thoughts and emotions. By detaching from social media, people can cultivate self-awareness, practice mindfulness, and engage in activities that promote self-reflection and personal growth.

8. Encourages outdoor activities and exercise: Social media can be a sedentary activity that promotes a more sedentary lifestyle. Detoxing from social media frees up time for physical activities, outdoor pursuits, and exercise, leading to improved physical health and overall well-being.