I am taking a break from social media. It is something I never thought I could do, but it is something that I now realize that I really need. When you just go about your daily life outside of the internet, you are are less likely to encounter TERFs (trans-exclusionary radical feminists, for those who may be unaware) and other hate-driven individuals and groups like them.

Yes, during this break, I am still browsing the web and texting friends, but I am removing that open door policy I had before where I would allow strangers to come in and say what they want, often times provoking an unnecessary and harmful reaction out of me.

I decided to take this break after having a breakdown and it honestly already feels like it is helping. While, of course, I stay aware of the news each day, it is refreshing not to get a constant stream of updates on how Donald Trump and the Republican majority Congress are working towards limiting and taking away my rights. It is also refreshing not seeing another celebrity I admire, or even a random stranger, saying hurtful and terrible things about the LGBTQ+ community.

I know I cannot avoid hatred and ignorance and, while I am not advocating for trying to avoid it, self-care is vital for me as it should be for everyone else. Seeing a seemingly never-ending flow of hatred and threats directed towards your communities is draining and self-care is an absolute must.

But, how do you disconnect from Twitter and other forms of social media? It is simple, for me; I took all of my social media apps on my phone, put them in a folder, and then moved that folder to the last screen on my phone. I replaced the empty spots with games to keep me preoccupied when I only have my phone with me and I find myself bored or wanting to check social media.

Doing something like this would be harder on a computer if it was not for all the websites and web add-ons created to keep people from visiting social media sites when they are working. Although I have not been able to find one that lets me block sites for days at a time, I am able to block social media during the times I'm at home and this is very beneficial for me to disconnect.

I know that a social media break is not for everyone, but I encourage you to do it for at least a day to see how it helps with your stress levels. If it increases it or you stay the same, then, sure, a break probably is not for you. If you feel better after it, then, maybe, you should take breaks more often. It is all about finding what works best for you.