A Healthier Scroll: Improving Your Digital Wellbeing”
In a world where studying, socialising, and relaxing all seem to happen through a screen, it’s easy for digital habits to become overwhelming without us even realising it. Modern student life is firmly connected to technology, but that doesn’t mean constant notifications or endless scrolling have to define your day. Finding a balanced way to use your devices can protect your focus, energy, and overall well-being without asking you to give up the tools you rely on.
Why Digital Balance Matters
A recent survey by Ofcom (2024) found that young adults check their phones an average of 150 times per day, often without noticing. This constant digital tapping can increase stress levels and reduce your ability to concentrate for long periods. Digital balance isn’t about cutting out technology; it’s about using it in a way that supports your wellbeing.
Healthy Screen-Time Habits to Try
- Schedule Tech-Free Breaks
During study sessions, carve out regular short breaks where you step away from devices. Even a couple of minutes spent stretching, walking, or just looking out of the window can help reset your mind and reduce digital fatigue.
- Set Clear Boundaries for Focus
Turn on “Do Not Disturb” mode or use app-blocking tools when you’re working. Notifications and rapid task-switching are mentally exhausting: studies show that frequent switching between tasks increases cognitive load, making your brain work harder to stay focused.
- Limit Screens Before Sleep
Try to avoid screen use in the 30–60 minutes before bed. This helps your body transition into a restful state more easily.
- Why this matters: Exposure to blue light from screens can delay melatonin release, which makes it harder to fall asleep.
- Tip: Consider using night-mode / blue-light filters, or even putting your device away entirely before doing a calming pre-sleep activity, like reading or listening to mellow music.
- Focus on One Task at a Time
Rather than juggling multiple apps, tabs, or platforms, try focusing on a single task. Constant multitasking may seem efficient, but it often reduces productivity and increases mental tiredness.
- Make Real-World Connections
Digital interactions are useful, but real-life social time remains vital. Taking a break to chat with someone in a common room, heading outside for a breath of fresh air, or meeting classmates in person can help reset your mood and reduce digital stress.
- Use Your Devices with Intention
Before opening Instagram or checking emails, pause and ask: “Why am I doing this?” This simple question can stop mindless scrolling and make your screen time more purpose
SIMPLE WEEKLY CHALLENGE YOU CAN TRY THIS WEEK
What to Do
Tech Detox Evenings
Choose one or two nights a week where you avoid screens for at least 60 minutes before bed.
Focus Blocks
Schedule 45–50 min study sessions where notifications are off, followed by 5–10 min breaks.
Social Breaks
Take at least one break a day to chat, walk, or study with friends in a shared space — without your phone in hand.
Conclusion
Tech is a powerful tool, but when it takes over, it can undermine the very goals it helps us achieve. By using these small, intentional strategies, you can maintain a healthier balance ,stay focused, sleep better, and still enjoy the benefits of being connected. At The Student Lodge, we encourage you to create a digital routine that supports your success ,both in and out of your studies
