New data from a 2025 Researchscape International survey conducted on behalf of LifeStance reveals what many of us already feel—our screens are draining us. While social media has its benefits, a striking 76% of Americans say consider a digital detox, with Gen Z (84%) and millennials (83%) leading the way. From anxiety to sleep problems, screen time is taking a toll. But how do you digital detox in real life when your phone is also your alarm clock, your map, and your social lifeline? As a licensed therapist, I’ve helped many clients navigate this exact challenge. A digital detox doesn’t have to mean going off-grid or checking into a luxury digital detox retreat. It can start with a few hours of intentional disconnection—and grow into a sustainable mental health practice. What Is a Digital Detox? A digital detox is a deliberate break from screens, especially social media, to reduce stress, improve focus, and reconnect wit...

In recent years, the therapeutic landscape has witnessed the rise of an unexpected ally: tabletop role-playing games (TTRPGs). These immersive and collaborative games have transcended their traditional realms of fantasy and adventure to become useful tools in mental health therapy. Among the various TTRPGs, Dungeons & Dragons® (D&D) stands out as a pioneering force, bringing together storytelling, creativity, and camaraderie in a way that can yield psychological benefits. But what makes these games useful in therapy, and how did I find myself at the forefront of this innovative approach? The Magic of Tabletop Role-Playing Games TTRPGs are a unique category of games that revolve around storytelling, collaboration, and character development. Unlike traditional board games, TTRPGs give players the agency to create and role-play as their chosen characters, making decisions that can dramatically impact the game’...