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Stanford reveals quitting Instagram can enhance happiness

A recent Stanford study highlights the emotional benefits of deactivating social media.

June 30, 2025 at 02:31 PM

Stanford Paid 35,000 People to Find Out if Quitting Instagram Makes You Happier

New research from Stanford reveals the emotional benefits of taking a break from social media.

Stanford Study Shows Quitting Social Media Can Boost Happiness

A major study from Stanford University indicates that deactivating Facebook and Instagram can improve emotional well-being. Conducted with over 35,000 participants, this research demonstrates that taking a break from these platforms may provide tangible mental health benefits. The study, involving a randomized controlled trial led by Hunt Allcott and Matthew Gentzkow, found that users who stepped away from social media before the 2020 U.S. presidential election reported modest improvements in their emotional state. Notably, older adults benefitted more from quitting Facebook, while younger women saw greater boosts from taking a break from Instagram.

Key Takeaways

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Deactivating social media can lead to noticeable improvements in emotional health.

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The study highlights different benefits for various age groups and genders.

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Mental health impacts of social media are increasingly under scrutiny.

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A break from social media efficacy suggests a balanced approach to technology use.

"Our results suggest that stepping back from social media can improve people's emotional state."

This quote summarizes the key finding that social media breaks can enhance emotional health.

"The sizes of these effects are meaningful, but perhaps smaller than social media's fiercest critics might expect."

This statement addresses the scale of the improvements found, providing context for public expectations regarding social media impacts.

The findings suggest a significant connection between digital engagement and mental health. While the improvements observed may appear modest, they are nonetheless vital as they suggest a collective movement towards recognizing the psychological costs of social media. With rising mental health concerns globally, this research advocates for social media breaks, alongside potential regulatory changes aimed at improving user experiences on these platforms.

Highlights

Taking a break from social media can improve your mood.
One week off Instagram can lead to better mental health.
Social media detoxes might be more effective than expected.
The digital age requires a new balance for mental well-being.

Concerns over social media's impact on mental health

As mental health issues rise globally, scrutiny on social media platforms increases. The findings underscore the need for further examination of these impacts.

As society grapples with technology's role in mental health, this study highlights valuable insights for users and regulators alike.

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