Liberty University Launches ‘Digital Relaxation Initiative’ to Combat Social Media’s Impact

Amid growing concerns about the effects of smartphone use on mental well-being and spiritual life, Liberty University is gaining attention for its ‘Digital Relaxation Initiative.’ The program aims to aid students disconnect from social media, online shopping, and entertainment during February and foster deeper connections with faith and community.

The second annual initiative, a collaboration between Liberty University and the Office of Spiritual Development, provides participants with a 54-page digital relaxation guide. This guide offers resources for Bible reading, meditation, and reflection. Students are encouraged to log out of social platforms and delete non-essential applications, utilizing the provided guides daily.

To support students, the university has installed 300 Brick devices in residence halls. These devices temporarily block access to social media platforms.

Concerns About Excessive Phone Use

Joey Odom, who announced the program on January 30, emphasized the potential downsides of constant connectivity. “Excessive cell phone use can suffocate all the solid things in our lives,” he stated, drawing a parallel to the “thorns” in the Parable of the Sower (Matthew 13), which he described as “worries, joys, and wealth” amplified by social media.

Odom, also a co-founder of digital wellness company Aro, warned against the “deception of wealth and constant comparisons” fostered by social media, suggesting they create a sense of incompleteness. He urged students to reduce their reliance on phones, advocating for dedicated time away from these devices each day.

He further cautioned that “mobile devices can be used to separate us…from God,” referencing historical distractions and noting the vast array of digital entertainment available today, including platforms like TikTok and YouTube. He questioned how individuals can fully embrace faith and love for others amidst such constant digital stimulation.

Research Supports the Necessitate for Digital Breaks

Joshua Rutledge, Vice President of the Office of Spiritual Development, highlighted research from experts such as Andy Crouch, Darren Whitehead, and Dr. Jonathan Haidt regarding the impact of social media.

“Over the past two years, there has been a lot of research showing the real mental health effects of long-term social media use,” Rutledge said. He added, “Our enemies are lying to us through our phones,” and warned that prolonged engagement can lead to “lies, anxiety, and fear.” He advocated for breaking through this “wall” with the truth of the gospel.

Recent Findings on Social Media Detox

The initiative aligns with recent scientific findings on digital well-being. A study led by Dr. John Torous, an associate professor at Harvard Medical School, investigated the effects of a voluntary social media detox on 18- to 24-year-olds. The results, published in JAMA Network Open in December 2025, showed significant improvements in mental health.

Participants who reduced their social media usage from an average of over two hours daily to approximately 30 minutes experienced a 16.1% decrease in anxiety, a 24.8% decrease in depression, and a 14.5% decrease in insomnia. The most substantial improvements were observed in individuals with pre-existing high levels of depression.

While overall screen time remained relatively unchanged, suggesting a shift in activity rather than a reduction, the study underscores the potential benefits of mindful disconnection from social media.