I recently had the privilege to chat with the #Social Trust community on Twitter as a guest. The host, Deb Coman, is a content conversion strategist and she helps business owners build social trust with their content to generate more visibility, sales, referrals, and collaborations online.

The topic for the chat was “Nurturing Digital Wellness to Cultivate Balance” and we chatted about the signs of digital overload, how to prioritize mental health, how to promote digital wellness in our households and with our children, and more.

If you missed the chat, no worries! Below is the recap for you. I hope you will join Deb and her community sometime soon, the #SocialTrust chat happens on Twitter every Monday at 3pm ET.

First question for @SabrinaCadini and all of you!

Q1 What does digital wellness mean to you? #SocialTrust pic.twitter.com/bnTwRjLj2Q

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

A1a: To me, #digitalwellness means a balanced relationship with tech & the digital world in a holistic way. It encompasses practices & habits bringing intention & attention to support well-being while we engage on different devices and platforms.#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A1b: Technology has made our lives easier and more convenient, but it is important to avoid the dangers of overuse and letting it control us (linked to difficulty focusing on other tasks, and even depression to mention a few negative effects).#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A1 – Being in right frame of mind

And to know what you are posting but also why.#SocialTrust

— Chad Phillips | CEO & Marketing Wizard 🐦 (@csnakedoc13) June 12, 2023

A1 Digital wellness means using the power of being online to enrich our business and our lives and not letting it run our lives and run us ragged.#SocialTrust

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

A1: For me, digital wellness involves finding a harmonious balance between leveraging the benefits of digital technology and minimizing its potential negative impacts. #SocialTrust

— Pavel Stepanov (@pavelStepanov77) June 12, 2023

A1: For us, this means being conscious of our digital habits, understanding the potential risks and challenges associated with excessive or uncontrolled technology use, and taking proactive steps to maintain a healthy digital lifestyle. #SocialTrust

— VirtuDesk (@virtudeskcom) June 12, 2023

@DebComanWriting
and@SabrinaCadini #socialtrust
A1 never thought about it with this term before. I believe every tool has a use and time. there is time off from everything for all of us. unplug is important.

— Panda Wear Artist #BLM (she, her) (@PandaWearGems) June 12, 2023

A1: digital wellness is the balance of building good relationships with others that makes you look forward to joining in the conversation with others like it is with #SocialTrust

— Diane Najm (@DianePhotoPad) June 12, 2023

A1 keeping my engagements in person and online in a healthy continuum. Keeping up good communication-listening skills both on and offline #socialtrust

— lori sica (@lorisica) June 12, 2023

A1) For me, digital wellness means being aware of how I FEEL when it comes to all things digital.
If it doesn’t FEEL good: stop, evaluate, and adjust.
If it FEELS good, keep it up!#SocialTrust https://t.co/3cCV2a66Hp

— Lori Anding 👑 || Introverted SoMe extrovert (@southbaysome) June 12, 2023

Q2 How does mindfulness support digital wellness? #SocialTrust pic.twitter.com/R1QWoDliQS

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

A2a: #Mindfulness can help us stay focused on what’s important, be more intentional, and avoid getting distracted by the endless stream of information on social media.#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A2b: Mindfulness can also help us develop a more balanced relationship with technology by identifying areas where we may be spending too much time online or engaging in unhealthy behaviors.#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A2c: In addition, mindfulness can help us manage stress and anxiety. By being fully engaged in the present moment, we can reduce feelings of overwhelm, make more intentional choices about how we use technology, and create healthier digital habits.#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A2: Mindfulness supports us in setting and respecting boundaries around our screen time. By being mindful of the time we spend on digital devices, we can establish limits that promote balance and prevent technology from encroaching on other aspects of our lives. #SocialTrust

— VirtuDesk (@virtudeskcom) June 12, 2023

A2 It’s easy for me to become enwrapped and entrapped in the online world and lose track of what’s happening in the real world, even right in the room I sit.

Mindfulness helps me practice awareness of my time + attention so I can be intentional and set boundaries.#SocialTrust

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

Q3 What are signs of digital overload? Share some ways to restore balance. #SocialTrust pic.twitter.com/IUmHTbcGun

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

A3a: Physical/mental signs may include:
⚠️ Irritability
⚠️ Anxiety or stress
⚠️ Vision problems
⚠️ Difficulty sleeping
⚠️ Mood swings #SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A3b: Many of my clients suffer from #technostress, defined as “a modern disease of adaptation caused by an inability to cope with new computer technologies in a healthy manner.”#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

a2) I think it's always important to be mindful of where you spend your time and what inputs you experience. Gonna pull out an old favorite just for @DebComanWriting #SocialTrust pic.twitter.com/JxGvrie7OX

— 🎓 Amy Hampton, M.A. 🌻🇺🇦🌻🇺🇸🌻 (@lonedaisymedia) June 12, 2023

A3c: Behavioral signs may include:
⚠️ Constant need to be connected
⚠️ Overwhelm by constant information
⚠️ Neglecting personal responsibilities, “me time”
⚠️ Experiencing “digital divisiveness,” leading to societal discord & online violence#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A3: Prioritizing digital interactions over face-to-face interactions leads to a decline in the quality of personal relationships. Set specific time limits for technology use. Create tech-free zones to disconnect from devices and focus on other activities. #SocialTrust

— VirtuDesk (@virtudeskcom) June 12, 2023

A3d: Restore balance by:
✅ Setting boundaries (screen time 1 hr/day outside of work)
✅ Taking breaks (move and be in nature)
✅ Prioritizing self-care (stay tuned for my gift!)
✅ Fostering offline connections (quality time with family & friends)#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A3 My digital overloads include feeling stressed, poor sleep, and being short-tempered with my family.

I restore balance by:

✅ Not bringing my laptop into main living areas of my house
✅ Setting boundaries around work time
✅ Starting my days with more intention#SocialTrust

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

A3: Excessive screen time, particularly close to bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns, leading to difficulties falling asleep or maintaining a restful sleep. Trust me, I have been there. I was grateful for being able to sleep well now. #SocialTrust pic.twitter.com/74494vlpQt

— Pavel Stepanov (@pavelStepanov77) June 12, 2023

a3b) Solutions – best one is just unplug for a while. Reset your system. Spend some down time doing other things – exercise, hobbies, or other analog things. #SocialTrust

— 🎓 Amy Hampton, M.A. 🌻🇺🇦🌻🇺🇸🌻 (@lonedaisymedia) June 12, 2023

Q4 How can we cultivate a positive digital presence and prioritize our mental health while using social media? #SocialTrust pic.twitter.com/h4LbHwMS23

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

A4a:
🔶 Be selective with the platforms you use (choose uplifting, inspiring, educating accounts & content)
🔶 Be authentic when you engage, avoid comparing yourself to others
🔶 Treat others with kindness and respect (your words can be powerful)#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A4b:
🔶 Limit social media time, avoid mindless scrolling
🔶 Take regular breaks to recharge, reconnect with the present moment, and for self-care
🔶 Unplug for 1-2 days each week to reset your mind & focus on what’s most important #SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A4c: The @digiwellinstit helps organizations & individuals reach a state of Digital Flourishing®, a sweet spot where productivity, health & happiness are optimized amid work and life in the digital era, avoiding burnout and reduced productivity.#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A4: Be mindful of the content you consume on social media. Follow accounts that inspire, educate, and uplift you. Unfollow or mute accounts that promote negativity or make you feel inadequate. #SocialTrust

— Pavel Stepanov (@pavelStepanov77) June 12, 2023

A4: Pay attention to how social media affects your mental and emotional state. Notice if certain accounts or content trigger negative emotions or comparisons. Be aware of the time you spend on social media and how it impacts your mood and productivity. #SocialTrust

— VirtuDesk (@virtudeskcom) June 12, 2023

A4 We can be consistent and present online and still prioritize our mental health on social media by being more focused and intentional about our goals and time on social media.#SocialTrust

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

a4) Same as we would in real life. Curate your connections and feed ruthlessly. Set and stick to behavior boundaries. Mute/Block with impunity. Pick your battles with care. Remember it's your online experience – no one else's. #SocialTrust

— 🎓 Amy Hampton, M.A. 🌻🇺🇦🌻🇺🇸🌻 (@lonedaisymedia) June 12, 2023

A4.

IT‘s all about TIME! ⏰
Too much of too much (negative) may be too much! 😆

Too much may be always too long in case you don’t take care of yourself IRL!

Focus on positive content

Change what you consume if it „hurts“ your mental health#SocialTrust pic.twitter.com/xlXfbKATlj

— Doris ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 (@DoPauln) June 12, 2023

A4 By not taking yourself or the platform too seriously. Media changes overnight and there is nothing you or I can do #SocialTrust https://t.co/rL8X2kJZH6

— HAGGLE THIS (@hagglethis) June 12, 2023

Q5 How can we promote digital wellness in our households and with our children? #SocialTrust pic.twitter.com/WxmCUm0tbX

— Deb Coman #SocialTrust (@DebComanWriting) June 12, 2023

A5a:
⭐ Lead by example (practice healthy digital habits and set boundaries for your own technology use)
⭐ Establish tech-free zones and times (such as their bedroom and dinner time)#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A5b:
⭐ Promote open communication (encourage to share their online experiences & help them evaluate information critically)
⭐ Enforce an age-appropriate bedtime (screen time is linked to weakened immune system & poor academic performance in teens)#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A5: maybe limit how much time is spent online. Depending on the content you post, don’t read all the negative comments. They aren’t worth it.#SocialTrust

— Benjamin Katz (@BKatz301) June 12, 2023

A5: Children learn by observing their parents and caregivers. Model responsible and mindful use of digital devices. Show them how to balance technology with offline activities, engage in face-to-face interactions, and practice self-care. #SocialTrust

— VirtuDesk (@virtudeskcom) June 12, 2023

A5c: Dr. Vivek Murthy @Surgeon_General recently issued an advisory exploring and describing the current evidence on the positive and negative impacts of social media on children and adolescents, along with solutions:https://t.co/9qlEC74dJv#SocialTrust #LifeWorkBalance

— Sabrina Cadini (@SabrinaCadini) June 12, 2023

A5: Create a safe and open environment where family members can discuss their digital experiences, concerns, and challenges. Be receptive to their questions and provide guidance and support when needed. #SocialTrust

— Pavel Stepanov (@pavelStepanov77) June 12, 2023

A5 Lead by example. No phone on dining table etc. Have exciting conversations to show kids there is zero need to look into your phone all the time. Show them how interesting/beautiful our world is. #SocialTrust

— Dorothée Lefering (@DoroLef) June 12, 2023

A5 – First and foremost is avoid judgment- we may not view social media the same as our children or our teens! Promoting wellness is a discussion and since my son is now 20- I have learned much. Asking them questions is a good start. #SocialTrust

— 🟣 Gail Robertson-ChiefCuriosityOfficer (@GailNow) June 12, 2023