Student-led research by a group of sixth-form students at The Ladies’ College has found that removing social media for two weeks positively impacted their mood, daily habits and relationships.
Twelve Year 9 volunteers did a trial that blocked social media apps on their phones for a14 day period. They also submitted a daily screen time report and completed regular mood questionnaires.
Katja, one of the sixth formers who led the project, said it made more of an impact than she had expected it too.
“We’ve all heard about how too much phone use can affect mental health and focus, so we wanted to see what actually happens when you take social media away for a bit. It was interesting to see how quickly people noticed a difference.”
During the trial, the students reported feeling more present, less distracted, and more engaged in face-to-face conversations.
Most respondents reported spending more time with family and friends and found they had more free time than they expected.
Overall, screen time decreased, and many filled the time with wellbeing-focused activities.
Mood was tracked using questionnaires before, during and after the trial.
The collated data showed general improvements in students’ mental health while they were off social media but some effects faded once access resumed.
A follow-up one week after the trial ended showed their mood levels dipping again.
Year 9 student, Eleanor said she had enjoyed her screen-free time.
“At first, I thought I’d really miss scrolling through social media but after a few days I didn’t even think about it as much. I had more time to read, go outside, and actually talk to people properly. I didn’t realise how much my phone was distracting me until I took a break from it.”
The team now plans to expand the trial to include a larger group with the next phase involving 20 students and their parents, along with further research into the long-term impact of social media breaks on mental wellbeing.
Principal, Daniele Harford-Fox, said: “Carrying out original research is something that few teenagers are doing and I’m proud of the team. The students’ approach was interesting, and their findings further indicate the problematic nature of social media.”