Pupils at a school in Kent said they found "freedom" in giving up their smartphones for a week.
The Year 10 pupils at The Canterbury Academy have been taking part in an experiment studying the impact of mobile phones on young people.
In a research project by the University of Kent, the teenagers instead used an old-style mobile phone - without social media or apps - for a week.
Some of those taking part said they would have been happy not having their smartphones for a bit longer.
Year 10 pupil Molly enjoyed not having the pressure of notifications.
"The use of social media can really take a toll on your mental health, and I just feel free and happy with myself when I'm not constantly staring down at a screen," she said.
Students were only able to use the phones for messages and calls.
Some of those taking part in the experiment found it changed how they acted during the week.
Hollie said: "I was more present in the moment and wasn't as distracted constantly.
"I was more aware of what was going on around me."
Kieran said he had a habit of scrolling through his phone before bed and did not get enough sleep.
"This week I haven't been on my phone before bed obviously so I've got a lot better sleep for it," he said.
Parents of the pupils also noticed a difference in their teenagers.
Claire, Kieran's mum, said the experiment allowed them to realise how much they relied on their phones and how much their lives revolved around them.
"I think hopefully from this they'll maybe take a bit of a step back from it," she said.
Molly's mum Nicola added: "I feel like I've got my daughter back."
She said Molly had enjoyed the freedom of not having to look at her phone all the time.
Psychology lecturer Dr Lindsey Cameron interviewed the pupils at the start and end of the week.
She said students were "reflecting on their behaviour themselves, from this experience, rather than someone else telling them to switch off their notifications."
The Canterbury Academy already restricts smartphones in school.
Next week they are hosting an event for parents to continue the conversation about their use.
Chief Executive Officer of The Canterbury Academy Trust, Jon Watson, believes the school's role is "to give people information and allow them to make informed decisions at the end of that process that will be the best fit for them and their young people."
More schools in Kent are expected to take part in the experiment in September.