Logging Off to Heal: Why I Stepped Away From Social Media for My Mental Health

I didn’t write last week as I needed a time out, if you will, juggling a busy week with work, kids, and all of the things that envelope being a mom and bonus mom. I promise here on out I will push harder to provide weekly posts as intended, starting with this one posting a day early!

A few months ago, I stepped away from social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and LinkedIn - while this was a professional account I went full send) and while I have been someone who was an avid social media user for the last 18 years, it had gotten to a point that I felt too attached. I needed that feel of connection to those on the other end of the screen, and when my political and religious views started adjusting to a different direction a few years back, I started really channeling into my socials, of which, I don’t regret my stances, but I needed to grow and step away from the screen.

For a long time, scrolling through social media felt harmless—something I did to unwind, stay connected, or pass the time. But over time, I started noticing how it affected my mental health in ways I couldn’t ignore. What once felt entertaining slowly became overwhelming, and I realized that social media was taking more from me than it was giving.

One of the biggest challenges for me was constant comparison. Even though I knew I was only seeing curated highlights of other people’s lives, or wanting to display mine, it was hard not to measure myself against them. Success, appearance, relationships, productivity—everything felt like a silent competition. Without realizing it, I began feeling like I was always behind, never doing enough, and never quite measuring up. Of which, came from the people pleasing side of me.

I also noticed how emotionally exhausting social media could be. The endless stream of news, opinions, and conflict kept my mind in a constant state of alert. I would tell myself I was just checking in, but minutes turned into hours of doomscrolling and sharing posts, fighting the opinions and stances of others. Notifications disrupted my focus, my sleep, and even moments that should have felt calm or joyful. When anxiety or low moods were already present, social media only amplified them.

Another shift I noticed post social media deletion was how much I started relying on external validation. Likes, comments, and engagement subtly became a way I measured my content’s worth. When a post didn’t get the response I expected, it felt personal—even though it shouldn’t have - especially when opinions are everywhere. That realization was uncomfortable, but necessary.

Stepping away from social media wasn’t easy, but it was healing. With less noise, I feel more present in my own life. My mood has improved, my thoughts felt clearer, and I slept better. I began reconnecting with myself and the people around me in ways that felt more genuine and grounding. Not to mention, a healthier habit of staying off screen and putting my head into books instead.

For me, getting rid of social media wasn’t about disconnecting from the world—it was about reconnecting with myself. Choosing to log off became an act of self-care, a way to protect my mental health and create space for peace, balance, and authenticity.