55% of US Adults Post Less on Social Media as 47% Delete Apps Over Stress
Updated
Updated · ZDNet · Jul 8
55% of US Adults Post Less on Social Media as 47% Delete Apps Over Stress
1 articles · Updated · ZDNet · Jul 8
Summary
Incogni’s June 1-9 survey of 1,000 US adults found 55% now post less than five years ago, while 47% have deleted a social or messaging app because of stress or anxiety.
53% said they have become stricter about who can see their posts, and 51% said maintaining an online presence now feels like work, pointing to a broader pullback rather than a full exit.
Younger users showed the strongest strain: 61% of millennials and 56% of Gen Z respondents had deleted apps over stress, while 60% of Gen Z said social media upkeep feels like work.
44% said political content and polarization make them want to withdraw, 51% cited privacy or security risks as a reason to leave, and a third said conflict with loved ones could push them off platforms.
Disconnecting brought mixed emotions—27% felt peaceful after extended periods without checking messages, but 22% felt anxious; among Gen Z, anxiety reached 34% and FOMO 29%.