How to Block Instagram Using Freedom

We all struggle with distractions. If you have a habit of wasting time on Instagram, then this article is for you!

Instagram's various features, such as reels, stories, and posts, are all designed to capture and hold our attention. With the infinite scroll feature and a constant stream of visually appealing content, it's easy to get lost in the app and lose track of time. Moreover, Instagram's algorithm is designed to show users content that they are most likely to engage with, creating an endless cycle of mindless scrolling and clicking that can be incredibly distracting and time-wasting. Also, the social comparison aspect of Instagram can lead to a fear of missing out, and have a negative impact on emotional wellbeing.

The good news is that you can block Instagram using Freedom! Here’s how:

Step 1: Download Freedom from the App Store

Get started for free by downloading Freedom from the App Store, then log in, or create your free account.

Step 2: Allow Freedom to access Screen Time permissions

When prompted, follow the steps for allowing Freedom to access Screen Time.

Step 3: Create a blocklist of apps that you want to block

You can customize your blocklists to include which apps you would like to block with Freedom. To do this, select the Blocklists tab and choose an existing blocklist to edit, or select 'Add New Blocklist' to create a new blocklist.

From the Add Blocklist screen, select 'Add iOS apps to block':

Select which apps you would like to block (be sure to include Instagram), and then go back to the Add blocklist (or Edit blocklist) screen.

Tap 'Create'/ 'Save' in the upper righthand corner once you've returned to the 'Add Blocklist'/'Edit Blocklist' screen:

Step 4: Start a Freedom block session

Step 1: Download Freedom from the Play Store

Get started for free by downloading Freedom from the App Store, then log in, or create your free account.

Step 2: Adjust permissions to allow Freedom to block apps

To block websites, apps, and app notifications, you will first need to enable permissions for the Freedom app. You will be prompted to enable these permissions as you use the app, but you can also set them up via the Settings screen. To ensure website and app blocking works effectively, make sure "Block applications and websites" is enabled.

Step 3: Create a blocklist of apps that you want to block

You can customize your blocklists to include which apps you would like to block with Freedom. To do this, select the Blocklists tab and choose an existing blocklist to edit, or tap the green plus sign (+) to create a new blocklist:

To choose the apps you wish to block, tap Add Android apps to blocklist to select which apps you'd like to block with this blocklist:

Tap the toggle button next to the apps you would like to block (be sure to select Instagram) and then tap the back arrow.

Step 4: Start a Freedom block session

Step 1: Go to www.freedom.to and create a free Freedom account

Start by creating a free Freedom account by signing up at www.freedom.to. If you already have an account you can skip this step.

Step 2. Download Freedom

Download, install, and log in to the Freedom app on your computer.

Step 3: Log in to your Freedom dashboard and create a blocklist

You can create a blocklist by clicking "Add Blocklist."

Step 4. Create a name for your new blocklist, then add Instagram and other distracting websites you would like to block to the list.

Step 5. Start a block session with your blocklist

Select Start Now at the top of your dashboard and enter how many hours and minutes you want the block to last.

Select {Your blocklist name} under Block these distractions:

Select what devices you want to include in your block.

You’ll see the Freedom Green Screen when you try to go to the Instagram website or any website on your blocklist:

Being distracted by Instagram can happen on any of your devices: your phone, computer, or tablet. We’ve got you covered. Unlike competitor solutions, Freedom blocks distractions across all your devices. Start a Freedom session on any device, select any other devices on which you’ve installed Freedom (Freedom devices are unlimited - installation is free), and your session will sync automatically to all the devices you include. Learn more at www.freedom.to.

Limiting time on Instagram has so many benefits, such as prioritizing other important aspects of life, reducing social comparison and low self-esteem, improving mental health, and encouraging engagement in offline activities and real-life connections. In short, it can have a positive impact on overall quality of life! To experience true freedom, try blocking Instagram on your devices by downloading Freedom today!