Digital Well-Being

Digital well‑being is about having a healthy, intentional and balanced relationship with your digital world. This includes social media, messaging apps, streaming, online learning tools, video games, AI tools and your devices overall.

At 鶹ѰBoulder, digital well‑being isn’t about giving up technology. It’s about making technology work for you so you can thrive academically, socially and emotionally—both on and offline.

Understanding Digital Well-Being

Digital well‑being means using technology with purpose, rather than feeling controlled by it. Screens are essential for learning, work and connection, but unmanaged tech use can increase stress, distraction or sleep problems.

Being mindful of how, when and why you use technology can help you:

  • Stay focused and productive
  • Improve sleep and energy
  • Feel more connected to people and goals you care about
  • Reduce stress and information overload

There’s no “right” amount of screen time. What matters is noticing what supports your well‑being, and adjusting when something isn’t working.

Build Skills

In today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world, understanding and caring for your digital well-being is more important than ever.

Peer Wellness Coaching provides supportive, one-on-one conversations with trained student coaches to help you reflect on your technology habits and make positive changes. In a judgment-free environment, coaches guide you in identifying areas where you want to improve—such as balancing screen time, managing stress or setting boundaries—while offering practical tools and encouragement for trying new strategies.

Skills and Practices for Supporting Your Digital Well-Being

Digital well‑being is a skill you can build over time. Small changes can help you feel more focused, less stressed and more present. If you’re looking to change your habits or routines, try these tips.


Set intentions before you unlock

Before opening an app or grabbing your phone, pause and ask:

  • Why am I using this right now?
  • Is it for connection, productivity, learning, rest—or just habit?

This quick check‑in can shift tech use from automatic to more meaningful.


Use tech to support your goals

Technology can be a tool, not a distraction, when used intentionally. Try:

  • Turning on focus or “do not disturb” modes during study time
  • Using apps that support time management, habits or mental wellness
  • Choosing platforms and tools that align with your values and priorities


Pay attention to your mind and body

Your digital habits can affect how you feel.

  • Notice how screen time impacts your sleep, mood and stress
  • Take breaks during long study or homework sessions
  • Step outside when you can—fresh air and movement can be powerful resets


Create boundaries that protect your time and energy

Healthy limits can reduce stress and burnout:

  • Schedule screen‑free times (meals, workouts, before bed).
  • Silence or limit notifications that break your focus. Consider creating additional boundaries to limit distractions when studying, such using app blockers, un-installing apps, turning off your phone or putting it in a drawer or another room.
  • Revisit your social media feeds—mute or unfollow accounts that drain your energy.


Stay connected in real life

Technology can help you stay in touch, but it can’t replace in‑person connection.

  • Prioritize study groups, campus events, clubs and outdoor time
  • When spending time with friends, consider putting phones away


Want a reset?

Try a short digital detox, like a screen‑free weekend. Inspired by 鶹Ѱalum Maddie Freeman’s “NoSo” initiative, this can be a simple way to reconnect with what matters most to you.

Find Support on Campus

If your digital habits are affecting your mental health, focus or balance, you don’t have to figure it out alone.

Peer Wellness Coaching: Meet one‑on‑one with a trained student coach to set goals around screen time, balance and daily habits.

Counseling & Psychiatric Services (CAPS): If technology use is feeling overwhelming or tied to anxiety, stress, or compulsive behaviors, CAPS can help. Call 303‑492‑2277 for support (24/7 availability).