What is Internet Self-Care Day?
It’s a day, celebrated on August 21, when we think about our online behavior and make proactive changes, to improve our well-being. That might run contrary to how we usually use the internet, because many of our automatic daily habits may not be supportive of mental wellness.
For instance, it is well-documented that social media can exacerbate mental health problems. When something — whether online or offline — depletes us psychologically, our personal life suffers, and our work suffers. Mindfulness in what we allow to affect us can help.
August 21 is an opportunity to rethink our internet use and become more intentional about it. Consider doing the following things for yourself:
- Unfollow any accounts that evoke negative feelings in you.
- Identify how you are using your time on the internet, how much time and attention you spend on each platform you visit. Decide if that’s appropriate and create limits for yourself.
- Plan for a digital detox, in the near future, or at regular times each week.
- Take stock of your total mental health and check out resources like the National Institute of Mental Health page about self-care.
- Seek out online spaces that support your goals and values, and where you feel you can participate.
- Take note of your favorite self-care and wellness resources and online activities that make you feel motivated and well, rather than depleted.
- Support others by sharing positivity online and in person.
- Choose an offline activity — maybe something outdoors — to engage in when you feel like you’ve had too much screen time or the wrong type. If you enjoy it, make it a priority each week.
image by Tatiana Syrikova from Pexels