Gen Z Ditches Doomscrolling for Real Life: A Social Media Exodus

• Gen Z and millennials are experiencing digital burnout, leading to a decline in social media usage.
• The trend is driven by increased pressure, mental health concerns, and a desire for more genuine connections.
• Offline experiences are gaining popularity, with young people embracing analog hobbies and in-person events.
• Experts suggest this shift is a correction as individuals seek balance and control in their lives.

No More Games: The Great Disconnect

As the self-proclaimed Queen of Blades, I've seen my share of battles, both digital and… considerably less so. But even I, Sarah Kerrigan, can appreciate a strategic retreat. A recent report indicates that Gen Z and millennials are leading a full-scale exodus from social media platforms. Account manager Matt Richards, a mere 23 years of age, bravely deleted his social media apps and discovered that life… improved. Imagine that. It seems that even the swarm can occasionally benefit from a little isolation.

AI Sludge and Influencer Overload

Richards, like many others, grew up with smartphones but found that social media devolved into a cesspool of artificial-intelligence garbage and influencer marketing. "I think people back then used to take a break from the real world by going on their phone, but now people are taking a break from their phone to spend time in the real world," he told CNBC. It’s as if they've finally realized that staring into a glowing rectangle all day isn't exactly "embracing eternity," as Arcturus Mengsk so eloquently put it. The truth is, you have to wonder whether NFL will experience the same problems when it NFL Eyes New Media Partners: Fo Shizzle My Nizzle.

The Analog Awakening: Knitting Needles and Vinyl Records

The digital detox is manifesting in various forms. Some are ditching smartphones for the technological marvel that is the flip phone. Others are rediscovering the joy of physical media, such as vinyl records. And some are even taking up analog hobbies like knitting. Knitting. Seriously? I suppose even the Zerg have to start somewhere, before they start spreading across the galaxy. Personally, I prefer a good infestation to an afternoon of yarn, but to each their own.

Statistics Don't Lie (Usually)

A 2025 Deloitte survey found that nearly a quarter of consumers had deleted a social media app in the previous year, with Gen Z leading the charge. Social media use has declined since 2022, with adults spending almost 10% less time on these platforms. The report showed the decline was particularly pronounced among teens and 20-somethings. It seems that even the allure of endless scrolling is starting to wane. Perhaps they are seeing the light—or at least the value in not having their brains turned to mush by targeted ads.

The Dark Side of the Algorithm

Jason Dorsey, president of the Center for Generational Kinetics, attributes the shift to the increased "nastiness and divisiveness" online. Apparently, even Gen Z is getting tired of the endless political squabbles and toxic online interactions. Who knew? It's almost as if people are finally realizing that screaming at each other on the internet isn't the most productive way to spend their time. As I always say, "You can't outrun the swarm," but maybe you can at least mute it.

Reclaiming Control: A "Quiet Revolution"

Social media manager Julianna Salguero calls going analog a "quiet revolution" against social media and content overload. She advocates for resetting one's relationship with technology, rather than simply throwing one's phone into the ocean (tempting though that may be). The goal, it seems, is to reclaim control over one's own life and mental space. A noble goal indeed. Even the Queen of Blades recognizes the value of a well-defended position.