Digital Minimalism & Mental Health: How to Break Screen Addiction with Kelsey Green

In this episode of The Hanley Effect, Dr. John Dyben and Dr. Rachel Docekal sit down with strategist, speaker, and digital minimalist Kelsey L. Green to explore the growing impact of technology on our mental health, relationships, and sense of self.Kelsey shares her personal journey from burnout and constant connectivity to intentionally redefining her relationship with technology. Through the lens of digital minimalism, she challenges the idea that we need to be “always on” and offers practical ways to create healthier boundaries with our devices, without rejecting technology altogether.Together, they dive into the parallels between screen use and addiction, the role of dopamine and compulsive checking, and why so many of us feel out of control with our devices. From “Screen-Free Sundays” to small, realistic habit changes, this conversation offers both insight and actionable tools to help you reclaim your focus, creativity, and connection.If you’ve ever felt distracted, overwhelmed, or disconnected despite being constantly plugged in, this episode is for you.What You’ll Learn in This EpisodeWhat digital minimalism really means (and what it doesn’t)How technology impacts dopamine, attention span, and behaviorWhy constant phone use can mirror patterns of addiction and compulsivityThe hidden ways screens affect relationships and presenceSimple, practical strategies to reduce screen time and regain controlWhy core values, not just hacks, are key to lasting changeKey TakeawaysTechnology isn’t the problem, unintentional use isIf you can’t step away from your phone, even briefly, it may signal a deeper issueMany apps are designed to trigger dopamine and reinforce compulsive behaviorEven having your phone nearby can reduce focus and presenceSmall boundaries like putting your phone out of sight can create meaningful changeTrue transformation comes from asking: “Who do I want to be in relation to my technology?”Episode HighlightsKelsey introduces digital minimalism as a values-based approach to technology using tools intentionally while letting go of what doesn’t serve your well-being. The conversation draws powerful parallels between substance use and screen use, highlighting compulsivity, loss of control, and the impact on relationships. Listeners are encouraged to experiment with small steps, like reducing notifications, creating phone-free spaces, or trying a Screen-Free Sunday, to better understand their habits and regain autonomy. Ultimately, this episode is a reminder that the most meaningful parts of life: connection, creativity, presence, and purpose can’t be downloaded.About Our GuestKelsey L. Green is a strategist, speaker, and community builder focused on helping people reclaim their focus, creativity, and real-world connection in an increasingly distracted world. Through her work in digital minimalism, she guides individuals and groups in creating intentional relationships with technology so they can live more present, purposeful lives. She is the creator of Summit in Six and How to Build Your Circle, programs designed to foster accountability, creativity, and authentic connection. To learn more visit: https://www.kelseylgreen.com/Learn more about Hanley Foundation at hanleyfoundation.org or call 844-502-4673.