As Australians plan for 2026, many are hitting reset with a New Year's resolution gaining popularity: the digital detox. Nearly half of people worldwide plan to cut screen time in 2026, swapping scrolling for stillness to support mental health and wellbeing.
In Australia, one in three people (34 per cent) have tried a digital detox, with about four in 10 (39 per cent) succeeding and reporting clearer thinking, steadier emotions, and more energy, according to a study by technology trends analysis company Airteam. Neuroscientist Annett Koenig said even short breaks can reset the brain, as each scroll, ping, or notification triggers dopamine and a stress response, training the brain to reach for devices automatically.
The Airteam research showed Australians have a 39 per cent success rate when attempting a digital detox. Millennials are leading the way, with 21 per cent successfully completing a detox, while 57 per cent of Gen Z try but only 28 per cent follow through. Airteam founder Rich Atkinson said Gen Z face a unique paradox as their entire social world exists online, making disconnection feel like cutting themselves off from their peer group.
Regional Australians have better odds: fewer try (29 per cent), but of those 51 per cent succeed. NSW residents try most (41 per cent) but succeed least (32 per cent). Koenig advises keeping a digital detox simple and realistic, noting that even 10 minutes of genuine stillness helps the brain recover, restore focus, and regain clarity.
