Social media breaks are not unusual. Even celebrities take their time off to protect their mental health. This does not mean consuming content online is harmful.

However, if you get the urge to see it all the time, then this may be alarming. Instagram is also a social platform where people share their photos and videos. Do you find yourself scrolling through it for most of your day?

Well, then, here’s the bad news: you may be addicted. 

What is Instagram Addiction?

Do you know habitual use is a well-known symptom of internet addiction? Similarly, excessive use of Instagram is also a psychological dependence.

Watching reels and going through photos that affect your work and relationships is not normal. Sometimes, if you try to give up this habit, you may experience withdrawal symptoms as well. 

How to Identify You Are Instagram-addicted?

Excessive Instagram use can lead to negative impacts on your life. It may affect your work, your relationships, and your mental health.

Some certain signs and symptoms will help you identify your obsession. Although most users have the same behavioral pattern, how they define addiction may vary. Here are five potential signs that are alarming. 

1. Excessive Use

Do you open Instagram as soon as you open your eyes in the morning? Do you use it to pass the time? Does it lead you to procrastinate more often? If yes, then this indicates a problem.

2. Ignoring Relationships

Staring at your screen and scrolling through your feed while you are sitting beside a loved one is also one of the signs. You may miss out on real-life experiences due to your addiction.

3. Documenting Everything

Feeling the need to record everything you do for social media is undoubtedly tempting. But, this may trigger your insecurities and make it hard to enjoy the present moment. 

4. Neglecting Responsibilities 

Mindlessly scrolling through Instagram at work despite the company’s restricted social media policy is a form of addiction. It delays your projects, and it is also risky. It may even cause you to lose your job.

5. Deleting Content

Instagram is for sharing your life with loved ones. However, if you delete your posts after not getting enough likes, it means you look for validation from the users. It can damage your self-esteem and trigger anxiety. 

7 Ways to Overcome Instagram Addiction

It is hard to give up Instagram use when society promotes online presence. Nonetheless, you can give up this habit if you try your best. It is up to you to decide what’s important for you.

Do you enjoy a real-life experience or a digital one? Do you want to touch humans or screens?  

If you prefer the former, consider the following seven tips. 

1. Limit Your Use

Keep track of the hours you spend using Instagram. You can even set a screen time for yourself. Hold yourself accountable every time you exceed it. There is an option in the phone settings that can help you limit your use. 

2. Opt for Full Detox

Log out of Instagram and involve yourself in outdoor activities. Do not open the app for at least a week. You will notice a prominent change. This will help you reflect on which behaviors need to change.

3. Deactivate Your Account

This seems like a harsh tip, but if it works for you, good. Deactivating Instagram may also help eliminate the urge to record and post what you do in your life constantly.

4. Find Other Activities

Involve yourself in games, house chores, or outdoor activities. Replace the time you spend online with healthy and productive hobbies. You may find yourself completely forgetful of the social media. 

5. Turn Off Notifications

It is impossible to resist an Instagram notification. The brain loves the immediate dopamine hit. Turn off your notifications to avoid checking your account at all times and falling back into this addiction. 

6. Keep Your Phone Away

This is no doubt an alien concept. But you cannot let technology control your life. Put your phone away and far from your sight. The less phone you use, the more hold you will have on your life. 

7. Prioritize Your Relationships

Enjoying attention online is less about connection and more about validation. Make efforts to connect with your loved ones in real life. Spend time with them and plan activities together to improve your experiences. 

Final Thoughts

Instagram is no doubt addictive. It is hard to get over it, especially the filters.

But let’s not refute the fact that all social media platforms are the same. Do not let their obsession trigger your insecurities, ruin relationships, and affect your mental health.

Remember, the online world does not see you beyond filters. Who you are in real does not matter to them. So, put conscious effort into breaking the addiction and overcome your habit.