© Freepik
January 6, 2026
Sharon Burbat
Discover how digital detox reduces stress, improves sleep, and enhances concentration. Practical tips for screen-free breaks in everyday life
Find a DoctorSearch the network for suitable specialists and contact them directly
In our increasingly digitalized world, we spend hours daily in front of screens—be it on a smartphone, computer, or tablet. Adults in Germany use their smartphones for an average of over five hours a day. However, constant availability, social media notifications, and other digital distractions can not only impact our productivity but also burden our mental and physical health. This is where the term Digital Detox comes into play—a conscious digital break that helps slow down everyday life and improve well-being.
Digital Detox involves the deliberate abstention from digital devices and media for a specific period. The goal is to reduce constant sensory overload, relieve stress, and enhance concentration.
Blue light emitted by digital devices disrupts melanin production and thus the sleep rhythm. Less screen time, especially before bedtime, can significantly improve sleep quality.
Distractions—such as a smartphone constantly flashing while working—lead to interruptions and multitasking. Avoiding devices increases attention and focused work, thus also productivity.
Studies show that constant scrolling through social media and constant notifications can lead to increased stress and anxiety. Those who regularly take digital breaks often experience noticeable relaxation.
Conversations with family and friends are conducted more intensively and consciously, thereby strengthening social contacts in real life.
There are no fundamental rules for a digital detox – except that you noticeably reduce digital usage. Proven methods look like this, for example:
A digital detox can be beneficial not only at home or in private life but also at work when it comes to increasing concentration. Many employees complain about overload due to constant availability and the frequent popping up of emails at the screen edge.
Our tips for everyday office life:
Children and adolescents also benefit from conscious digital breaks. This can be achieved, for example, by planning and adhering to screen times together and promoting family rituals without digital devices.
Social media overload can amplify feelings of comparison, envy, and anxiety. A regular digital detox helps to restore a kind of emotional balance. It can also be liberating to experience that you can live well without constant availability and the smartphone.
Digital detox is about much more than a trend you start at New Year. It's a conscious strategy to reduce stress and strengthen mental health, ultimately improving quality of life. It's not about completely isolating yourself from social media, but rather about having a healthy, reflective approach to it.
Even small changes (like the tips mentioned above) can have a positive effect. A digital detox is thus a conscious building block for a healthy life - both professionally and privately.
