tech

April 29, 2026

Whenever I leave social media, I hear from friends and family more often—there's a reason why, tech experts say

For some people, leaving social media can actually increase your social activity, say researchers who study digital wellness and tech policy.

Whenever I leave social media, I hear from friends and family more often—there's a reason why, tech experts say

TL;DR

  • Periodic social media detoxes have led to increased frequency of contact from friends and family.
  • Researchers indicate that leaving social media can, in some cases, increase social activity.
  • Surveys show users want to reclaim time, be more present in relationships, and reduce notification overload.
  • A significant percentage of social media users, especially Gen Z, have deleted apps recently.
  • Digital wellness experts suggest that removing social media can prompt friends to reach out more intentionally.
  • Social media breaks can lead to improved anxiety, depression, and insomnia levels, though loneliness may remain stable.
  • The strength of offline relationships depends on whether social media is used for existing connections or with light acquaintances/strangers.
  • Platforms often feature AI-recommended content and advertisements, moving away from original connection-focused purposes.
  • Some users question the depth of connections by asking if a person could be a chatbot.
  • Strategies to manage social media use include limiting notifications and proactively initiating contact.

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