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A groundbreaking new study has found that a simple phone hack—blocking mobile internet access—can lead to improvements in mental health comparable to those seen with antidepressant medications. The study, conducted by Adrian Ward, associate professor of marketing at Texas McCombs, alongside an interdisciplinary team of researchers, sheds light on the psychological impact of constant internet connectivity and offers a potential remedy.
The Rise of Smartphone Dependency
According to the Pew Research Center, 91% of Americans own a smartphone with internet access, a significant rise from just one-third in 2011. Another study reports that, on average, people spend 5 hours and 16 minutes per day on their screens. This increase in usage has sparked growing concerns about its effects on mental well-being. A 2022 Gallup Poll found that 58% of American smartphone users—including 80% of those under 30—worry they spend too much time on their devices.
Ward’s research validates these concerns and suggests that restricting smartphone internet access can have profound benefits for mental health, attention span, and overall well-being.
The Experiment: Blocking Browsers and Social Media
To investigate the effects of smartphone usage, the researchers conducted a four-week randomized controlled trial with 467 participants, averaging 32 years of age. The participants installed an app that blocked all internet access—including browsers and social media—while still allowing calls and text messages. Internet access was still available via computers at home, work, and school.
Participants were divided into two groups: one blocked mobile internet for the first two weeks, while the other group did so in the latter half of the experiment. Researchers used self-reported assessments and objective computer-based tests to measure psychological functioning at the beginning, middle, and end of the study.
Significant Improvements in Mental Health and Attention
The results revealed that blocking mobile internet for just two weeks led to substantial improvements in three key areas:
- Mental Health: 71% of participants reported better mental health after the internet break than before. The improvement in depressive symptoms was comparable to that seen in studies on antidepressant medications.
- Subjective Well-Being: 91% of participants showed improvements in at least one area of psychological functioning.
- Attention Span: Participants’ ability to focus improved to an extent equivalent to reversing 10 years of age-related cognitive decline.
Furthermore, the benefits of disconnecting from mobile internet appeared to increase over time, with participants reporting progressive improvements in well-being each day.
More Time Offline, More Control Over Life
Ward suggests that the psychological benefits stem from a shift in behavior. Instead of spending time scrolling through social media or consuming digital content, participants engaged in offline activities such as hobbies, social interactions, and outdoor activities. They also reported improved sleep and a greater sense of control over their lives.
These findings indicate a strong consumer desire for technologies that minimize digital distractions. Ward suggests that businesses could explore subscription-based models that prioritize user well-being by reducing exposure to digital ads and addictive design features. Employers, too, might consider offering digital detox programs to boost employee happiness and productivity.
However, he acknowledges that the effectiveness of such interventions depends on voluntary participation. In the study, only 57% of participants installed the app as instructed, and just 25% completed the full two-week internet-free period. Nonetheless, with 80% of people believing they spend too much time on their phones, there may be widespread interest in similar interventions.
Final Thoughts
As society continues to grapple with the psychological effects of constant connectivity, this study offers a promising solution. While mobile internet has become an integral part of daily life, taking intentional breaks from it could be key to improving mental health and cognitive function.
Disclaimer: This article is based on research findings and should not be interpreted as medical advice. Individuals experiencing mental health concerns should consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance.
Reference:
“Blocking mobile internet on smartphones improves sustained attention, mental health, and subjective well-being” by Noah Castelo, Kostadin Kushlev, Adrian F Ward, Michael Esterman, and Peter B Reiner, 18 February 2025, PNAS Nexus. DOI: 10.1093/pnasnexus/pgaf017.
