Watch: Influencer ditches smartphone after addiction left her friendless

Once boasting a social media following of over 170,000, writer and artist August Lamm has dramatically shifted her life by altogether ditching her smartphone. Lamm, who was deeply immersed in the world of social media, found herself feeling increasingly isolated despite her online popularity. Now, she advocates for a "smartphone detox" and encourages others to follow suit by switching to simpler "dumb" phones.

In a recent interview, Lamm explained the overwhelming impact of her social media addiction, saying, "When your whole social life is online, you can feel popular." However, she soon realized that the constant connection did not equate to true friendships or fulfilment. Lamm now expresses that she "would never go back" to using a smart device, having discovered a newfound sense of peace and freedom without the constant pull of notifications and screens.

Her decision to unplug comes at a time when smartphone addiction is a growing concern, particularly among younger generations. According to UK telecoms regulator Ofcom, people between the ages of 25 and 34 spend more than four hours per day glued to their phone screens. The pressures of social media and constant digital engagement have raised alarm bells about the impact on mental health and real-world relationships.

Lamm's call for a simpler life echoes a growing movement against the pervasive influence of smartphones. As she shares her journey, many question whether technology, rather than connecting us, is driving a wedge between people and genuine human interaction. For Lamm, the path to rediscovery started with the simple act of putting down her smartphone—and she's now urging others to take the same step toward reclaiming their lives.