Could Putting Down Your Phone Improve Your Mental Health? Study Says Yes

Be honest—how many hours a day are you glued to your phone? One hour? Two? Eight? And more importantly, how is that screen time affecting your mental health? A recent month-long study found that cutting off mobile internet access for just two weeks significantly improved participants’ well-being and slowed cognitive decline.

But with phones playing a central role in both our personal and professional lives, is it realistic to unplug? NBC Palm Springs contributors Katrina Dixon and Nick Collins weighed in on the challenge of disconnecting.

“I’ve seriously considered it,” Dixon admitted. “But my work—like pet sitting—relies on constant internet communication. It’s tough to step away when clients expect quick responses.” Collins echoed the sentiment, noting that while digital detoxing is beneficial, business demands keep many tethered to their devices.

The discussion also touched on the ongoing debate over cell phone use in schools. Collins emphasized the importance of phones for student safety. “Kids having phones gives them a way to call 911 in an emergency,” he said. “We gave them these devices—it’s not entirely their fault they use them.” Dixon agreed but pointed out the distraction factor. “Even in college classes I paid for, I caught myself scrolling through TikTok out of boredom,” she said.

While the idea of cutting back on screen time sounds appealing, finding the right balance remains a challenge. Could you give up your phone for two weeks to improve your mental health? For many in the Coachella Valley, the answer is complicated—but the conversation is more important than ever.