Work-Life Balance in the Digital Age: How Brits Unwind Online 

Increased access to the internet and digital technology has changed life considerably, both in terms of how we spend time at work and relax in our time off. In 2024, around 94% of the adult population owned a smartphone, and many people now use their smartphones to consume media and entertainment, including streaming platforms, online games and social media. For some, however, increased access to digital technology has made it harder to disconnect, especially due to the rise of remote work and hybrid working. 

The Rise of Online Streaming 

Online streaming services have become one of the primary forms of entertainment for many people living in the UK, offering on-demand TV shows and films for a monthly subscription. 68% of households, around 20 million, subscribe to at least one video-on-demand streaming service such as Netflix. However, many more use free platforms such as iPlayer. 

The advantage of these platforms is that you never have to worry about missing your favourite show.

You can log in and watch an episode whenever you want, with the option to pause, rewind, and play at any time.

This is a big advantage for the modern world, where many people are too busy to sit down in front of the TV at a specific time.

It also means that you can log in and watch from any device, catching up on the latest episode while on your commute to work. 

Streaming platforms have made entertainment more accessible and convenient, but some users have raised concerns about the declining quality of content available. Many shows and films produced for the services have received poor user ratings, with quantity often preferred over quality.  

Playing Games Online 

Gaming has also become a major pastime for British people in the digital age. Since the 80s, the video games industry has grown significantly, and there are now thousands of new games released every year for a variety of devices. Gaming has also become far more accessible, with high-powered computers and consoles no longer necessary to enjoy games.  

In 2023, it was estimated that around 55% of people living in the UK played some type of game regularly, with 34% of UK adults playing games on their mobile phones. This instant access to games, which can be played anywhere and anytime, makes them extremely appealing.  

Many people in the UK also enjoy spending time playing at online casino sites such as the Megaways Casino website. These platforms, which can be used from an app or mobile site, offer a variety of games that are available to play for real money. A 2024 survey found that over one-third of Brits had taken part in online gambling in the past four weeks. 

Social Media and Its Impact on Users in the UK 

Social media platforms, such as Facebook, Instagram, TikTok and Reddit have grown in popularity across the UK over the past decade. These platforms can be used to catch up with friends, share life events and learn new things. In 2025, around 79% of the UK population used some form of social media, with young adults spending an average of 6 hours daily. 

While social media is often used to relax, it can be stressful and has been linked to mental health issues such as depression, anxiety, unrealistic expectations and cyberbullying. These issues are particularly apparent in young people, many of whom use social media at a much higher rate. In addition, some social media platforms have been linked to the spread of misinformation. 

Online communities and virtual socialising can be beneficial for busy Brits who don’t get much free time in the evenings outside of work. However, it may be at the expense of local communities and in-person socialising. Some fear that social media may fracture relationships, rather than help build them. 

The Future of Online Entertainment in the UK 

Although digital technology has led to many benefits, including increased working productivity and improved options for entertainment, there are some issues too. Smartphone addiction, online hate and spending more time indoors can all be traced to the rise of online entertainment. These issues can result in people feeling unhappier overall, even if it seems that life is better now. There’s a growing awareness of the need for screen-time limits, as well as tech-free time that can help people connect with friends in outdoor spaces and enjoy hobbies that aren’t related to digital media. It’s important that a balance is struck between work and life, while also ensuring that we’re not relying on digital platforms.