1 . Users should reduce their screen time

According to the researchers from National Center for Biotechnology Information (NCBI), long and consistent use of social media can lead to depression, stress, and anxiety among users of all ages.     1     This effect is driven by a constant urge to check and interact with the content on these platforms.

However, if you reduce the time you spend on your phone every day, you can spare a few more hours for outdoor activity.     2     Reducing your screen time also allows you to develop better in-person relationships. Positive social interactions release mood-boosting neurochemicals that promote overall happiness.

Here are a few tips to reduce your screen time:

Set limits. Many mobile devices and apps can record the amount of time you spend on your device. You might decide you only want to spend three hours online each day. From there, you can track your time to ensure you don’t go beyond the limit.

Remove distractions (使人分心的事物). Whenever you’re working on something else, try placing your phone in another room or closing your laptop.     3     You might also be less likely to conduct an Internet search that turns into an extended browsing (浏览) session.

    4     Accessing the Internet takes seconds, which can easily become a convenient habit. However, making specific plans to see friends or go outside can help you deliberately break away from the screen.

Create a habit.     5     For example, instead of grabbing your phone first thing in the morning, leave a pen and paper beside your bed and spend a few minutes journaling when you wake up. This way, you can train your brain to enjoy alternative forms of happiness and lessen the urge to log on to social media immediately.