Social Media Burnout Is Real: Here’s How I’m Dealing With It

Let's be honest, social media can be exhausting.

Between trying to keep up with every new trend, responding to DMs, and feeling like I have to “post something or I’ll disappear,” I found myself totally burned out and tired. If I didn't scroll, I wouldn't be connected. Days of lying in my bed, skipping class just for some dopamine scrolls were wasteful. What used to be fun and inspiring started feeling like a chore, and worst of all, it was messing with my mental health.

Here’s how I noticed the burnout creeping in, and what I’ve been doing to handle it.

The Signs I Couldn’t Ignore

At first, it was little things. I’d scroll through Instagram and leave feeling bored or annoyed. I was comparing myself to people I didn’t even know, feeling like I wasn’t doing enough. I’d try to take breaks, but then I’d hop on TikTok “just for five minutes”... and boom, there goes an hour.

I also took a peek at my screen time...9 hours this week just on TikTok. My attention span became low, and I became irritable. My grades have taken a hit from the phone's existence, and I knew I had to change.

What I’m Doing Differently

1. Setting Boundaries (and actually sticking to them)

I started deleting apps on my phone. I knew that with TikTok off my phone, I would migrate more to Instagram, but I find it to be less engaging than TikTok. It’s helped me be more intentional with my time instead of mindlessly scrolling. I also started trying to help my attention span by watching longer YouTube videos and watching shows all the way through.

2. Reconnecting IRL

I’ve been making a point to spend more time with friends face-to-face, or even just call someone instead of DMing. Real conversations > comment sections.

3. Taking Breaks Without Guilt

Sometimes I just log out completely from everything for a weekend. No story updates, no scrolling, nothing. And surprise...I’m still alive. Nobody forgot about me. The world didn’t end. It’s okay to unplug.

Final Thoughts

Social media is a tool, and like any tool, it can help or hurt depending on how we use it. I still enjoy posting and connecting online, but I’m learning that I don’t have to be “on” all the time. My peace matters more than likes or views.

If you’ve been feeling the same kind of burnout, you’re not alone. Be kind to yourself. Take a step back. And understand there is so much more to look at in this world than that dang phone.