More than 14 years ago, the concept of "digital detox" was perhaps only just starting to raise volumes in people’s minds. The term itself was used by academics around 2012 to describe the growing need to step away from digital devices.
Digital detox is on the rise again in 2025, driven by growing awareness of mental health impacts, burnout, and the desire for real-world connections. According to 2023 Ipsos Global Trends Report, people are increasingly seeking to balance technology use with physical world engagement to improve overall well-being and nothing is different within our community and web visitors these days.
6 in 10 poll voters rarely or never disconnect from technology
Our Ipsos iSay website visitors and members offer insights where 29% have integrated digital detox into their 2025 routines. Yet, over a third (34.10%) never disconnect from technology, and merely 11.30% have a digital detox habit.
When it comes to making time for social interactions, it seems they remain key, with 45.5% of our Question of the Day poll voters prioritizing daily face-to-face engagement, whereas 14.60% seldom interact socially on a daily basis.
Preferred self-care activities include outdoor walks (32.6%), connecting with loved ones (12.60%), and pursuing personal hobbies (11.40%). Conversely, gratitude journaling and deep breathing exercises are less favoured, with just 0.60% and 1.90% participation respectively.
Understanding the Need for a Digital Detox
The concept of a digital detox embodies an increasingly vital approach to maintaining mental well-being and fostering a balanced lifestyle. In today's digitally connected world, people often find themselves overwhelmed by the constant barrage of notifications and the unending stream of online content. This perpetual connectivity can lead to digital fatigue, reduced productivity, and even negative impacts on mental health, such as stress and anxiety. Research by APA indicates a significant correlation between increased screen time and reduced well-being (Kristen Weir - “Social media brings benefits and risks to teens”). For example, adolescents who engage heavily with social media face twice the risk of depression and anxiety.
According to the same APA research, 41% of teenagers with the highest levels of social media engagement report suffering from poor mental health, whereas this figure drops to 23% among those with minimal use. Understanding the need for a digital detox involves recognizing these adverse effects and deliberately disconnecting from technology to refocus the mind and prioritizing offline interactions. These are some of the factors that brought digital detox into trends again:
Increased Screen Time
With the growing reliance on digital devices for work, social interaction, and entertainment, individuals are recognizing the need for breaks to avoid digital fatigue.
Mental Health Awareness
There is a heightened awareness of the impact of excessive screen time on mental health, leading many to seek balance through digital detox practices.
Desire for Meaningful Interaction
People are increasingly valuing face-to-face interactions and real-world experiences, driving interest in digital detox to foster deeper connections.
Exploring the Fun of Digital Detox
As people strive to find a healthier balance between their digital and real-world lives, the idea of unplugging and disconnecting from devices occasionally has taken root. Intriguingly, this movement has not only impacted personal lives but has also spurred some unique, fun, and innovative initiatives such as:
Offline Tourism
Some travel companies now offer 'digital detox' vacation packages where guests surrender their devices and engage in activities such as hiking, yoga, and meditation. These vacations promote relaxation and real-world connection.
Detox Apps
Ironically, there are digital detox apps designed to help people reduce screen time by setting usage limits, scheduling device-free times, and providing reminders to disconnect.
Digital Detox Parties
Some communities organize 'no-phone' parties where attendees are required to leave their phones at the door. These events encourage face-to-face interaction and creativity.
Celebrity Endorsements
It could be also that some celebrities advocate for digital detox, with some even taking extended breaks from social media platforms, which inspire their followers to consider similar habits.
Workplace Initiatives
It might be that in the working environment, employees are encouraged to perform digital detox during work hours by setting 'email-free' days or arranging offline retreats, aiming to boost team bonding and reduce burnout.
Our community
As every time, our community serves as a microcosm of the broader societal shift towards digital detox. As more individuals wake up to the importance of balancing technology with real-life interactions, insights from the Ipsos iSay community members or visitors offer a valuable perspective on how this trend is evolving.
By being part of Ipsos iSay, our members not only contribute to pioneering research but also empower themselves to influence future cultural shifts. Together, we continue to explore the complexities of digital wellness and collectively shape a future that values mindful engagement and genuine interactions.
Let's revisit our Questions of the Day:
- Is digital detox a part of your routine in 2025?
- Do you take a break from social media while on vacation?
- What are some of your favorite self-care activities?
- Do you make time for social interactions in your daily schedule?
Think about how you watch, what you watch, and why it matters to you. Then, jump into more community insights by participating in Ipsos iSay surveys. You’ll find new surveys and daily questions waiting on your dashboard!
*These results represent Ipsos iSay web visitors in Europe and North America, from July 25 to August 24, 2025, and may not reflect the views of the general population.
