Story perspectives

Study: Social Media Break Boosts Emotional Well-Being

4/19/2026

Summary

Story summary

A Stanford University study of 36,000 Facebook and Instagram users found that taking a break from social media improved emotional well-being.
Participants deactivated their accounts for six weeks (27%), while a control group logged off for one week.
Facebook users showed significant emotional improvements, especially among over 35, undecided voters, and those without college degrees.
Instagram users, particularly women aged 18 to 24, showed slight improvements.
Participants redirected freed-up time to other apps.

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Story summary

A Stanford University study of 36,000 Facebook and Instagram users found that taking a break from social media improved emotional well-being.
Participants deactivated their accounts for six weeks (27%), while a control group logged off for one week.
Facebook users showed significant emotional improvements, especially among over 35, undecided voters, and those without college degrees.
Instagram users, particularly women aged 18 to 24, showed slight improvements.
Participants redirected freed-up time to other apps.