Online support can be extremely helpful, but it's important to find a balance between your online and offline life for your mental health and wellbeing.

• Set aside some time regularly to do something offline, like reading a book, doing some physical exercise, being outdoors in nature or trying out a relaxation technique.
• Protect time in your day to eat healthily and get good sleep.
• Continue to spend time with friends and family.
• Sometimes, online support is not enough. If you are feeling unwell, and being online isn't helpful, it may be a good idea to seek offline support.
• If you are finding that being online is starting to have a negative impact on your mental health, you may need to take a break for a while.

How do I know if I need to take a break?

Here are some common signs that you might need to switch off for a while:

• You're having fewer face-to-face conversations with your friends and family.
• You're feeling disconnected from those closest to you.
• It's preventing you from getting other things done in the offline world.
• You're finding it hard to think about and enjoy other things.
• You're finding it overwhelming.

What can I do to help me switch off?

Switching off can be easier said than done. If you would like to take a break from being online, but are finding it hard to switch off, try these tips to help:

• Switch on the "do not disturb mode", so you won't receive notifications from apps, text messages or phone calls.
• Switch off notification sounds so it's easier to ignore notifications from apps and text messages.
• Use an app that helps you monitor and manage your phone use, including letting you restrict your app use.
• Put your mobile phone or other device in another room or somewhere else out of sight.
• Try switching off your computer, phone and any other mobile devices for a while, so you aren't tempted to check in online.

... if I'm feeling unwell or something worries/upsets me ...I turn off the laptop for the day