Finding balance in an online world

This month we have been exploring the topic of technology and how it can help make life easier for carers. This blog is a little different and focuses on looking after your digital wellbeing in an online world.

This advice is particularly helpful for young carers who are juggling school, friendships and their caring role. With their phones buzzing 24/7 with notifications, group chats and videos – they can be both a lifeline and an additional stress.

Digital wellbeing is all about having a healthy relationship with technology, making sure that it supports your mental health rather than drains it. It means feeling in control of how you use your phone or laptop, rather than overwhelmed by it.

This is not about shutting down your phone or laptop completely but about finding a balance.

Being on your phone a lot can make you feel the pressure to be always available, lead you to compare yourself to others and interrupt your sleep.

Here are some practical tips for healthier online habits:

1. Set your own screen limits (no guilt) You don’t have to reply to every message right away. Use Do Not Disturb or app timers to give yourself breaks.

2. Curate your feed Follow accounts that uplift, inspire, or make you laugh. Unfollow or mute anything that makes you feel anxious, stressed, or not good enough.

3. Choose connection over comparison If you’re scrolling, think if what you are looking at is helping you or making you feel bad. Or are you comparing yourself to others?

4. Create “tech-free” zones Try setting some boundaries, like no phone before bed or while eating. This will help you have a decent break from the screens.

5. Use tech to support your wellbeing Apps like Headspace or Calm can help you relax or just breathe. You could also make a relaxing playlist on Spotify.

By making small changes to how you use your devices, you can protect your mental health, focus on what really matters, and feel more in control