Eighteen months ago, I made the decision to delete Instagram, an app I used daily. Instagram detox I call it. The trigger? I realized I was scrolling mindlessly, even while driving—especially at traffic lights. It was a dangerous habit I couldn’t ignore. On top of that, I felt anxious seeing the curated highlights of other people’s lives, which made me question my own accomplishments. I also didn’t like the version of myself that posted frequently, seeking attention and validation.

Although my account still exists, I’ve trained myself to stay away. Occasionally, I log in on my work computer to check messages, but I’ve stopped scrolling altogether. Over the past year, I’ve replaced Instagram with YouTube Shorts. These short clips, often comedy snippets from shows like Modern Family, Family Guy, 2 Broke Girls, and The Big Bang Theory, have been a healthier alternative. They make me laugh without dragging me into the endless comparison trap.

Photo by Austin Chan on Unsplash

Sometimes, though, I find myself scrolling through 小红书 (XHS), and the experience there feels worse. Unlike YouTube, which is focused on entertainment, XHS is flooded with posts that feel superficial. Non-video content often involves people asking questions just to invite praise. It feels like we use XHS to seek validation or promote things that aren’t truly worth it—like restaurants that don’t live up to the hype, all for traffic and likes.

YouTube feels better because it prioritizes creativity and humor over self-promotion. It’s a space where I can relax and enjoy content without feeling pressured to compare myself to others. If you’re struggling with social media, know that you’re not alone. Stepping back is hard, but finding healthier alternatives can make all the difference. Your time and peace of mind are worth it. # instagram detox