What Is The “Friendship Recession”? The Impact Of Social Media On Mental Health

If you find it challenging to spend time with friends, meet new ones, and expand your social network, you’re not alone. In recent years, researchers have noted a decline in close personal relationships and meaningful social connections, potentially fueled by cultural and economic shifts that influence how we build and interact with our peer groups and communities. In this article, we’ll explore the causes of the friendship recession, its impact on mental and physical well-being, and strategies for rebuilding stronger social bonds in an increasingly disconnected world. If you’re experiencing loneliness or struggling to build or maintain connections with others, working with a therapist may be helpful.

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What is the “friendship recession”?

The "friendship recession" generally refers to the declining number of close relationships individuals maintain. This phenomenon can be seen across the world and has contributed to what researchers and public health authorities describe as a “loneliness epidemic” due to its widespread impact on mental health, well-being, and social cohesion.

The 2021 American Perspectives Survey reports that, in general, Americans now have fewer close friendships, communicate with their friends less frequently, and tend to be less likely to turn to them for support than in the past. While the COVID-19 pandemic may be partly to blame for this trend, a number of sociological factors and cultural shifts may be contributing to the friendship deficit.

Why social isolation is on the rise: Key factors behind the trend

Cultural shifts, the built environment, economic pressures, workplace changes, social media, and digital communication may all play a role in the friendship recession.

1. Cultural shifts

Experts attribute much of the friendship recession to a number of cultural shifts that have taken place in the past few decades. For one, individuals now tend to marry later in life, which can delay the formation of social networks typically developed through partnerships. They are generally more geographically mobile as well, and this can make it more difficult to maintain long-term friendships. 

A decline in religious involvement may also be a factor to consider. Whereas close-knit communities once developed around places of worship, the trend toward secularism appears to have caused these social networks to dwindle.  

Research has also found that parents usually spend more time with their children than they typically did in the past, which could reduce the time available for nurturing adult friendships.

2. The built environment

The built environment—that is, the physical spaces in which we live, work, and interact—can have a profound impact on social well-being. Urban sprawl, car-dependent suburbs, and restrictive zoning laws can limit opportunities for social interaction, while denser, more human-friendly development may facilitate frequent social encounters and foster a greater sense of community.

For instance, consider the social opportunities in a single-family development versus an urban neighborhood. The urban neighborhood likely features “third spaces” where people can gather, such as parks and cafes. In a typical suburb, such opportunities are often limited. Individuals typically drive to social engagements and are less likely to experience spontaneous social interactions in daily life.

3. Economic pressures

Economists have long understood the relationship between the economy and spending habits: When money is tight, people tend to spend less on dining, travel, and entertainment. Such activities often form the core of our social engagements, and with tighter budgets, Americans may simply be spending less time socializing.

From the Great Recession in 2008 to record-high inflation in the 2020s, economic pressures could explain some of the reduced social engagement observed in recent years. While there is limited research on the subject, studies have found that financial strain can impact both mental health and spending habits, possibly leading to reduced participation in social activities and an increased sense of loneliness. 

4. Workplace culture shifts

Work has historically been a source of camaraderie, with employee lounges, break rooms, and happy hours often serving as valuable opportunities for connection. However, shifts in workplace culture have begun to take a toll on work friendships. In her book Social Chemistry, Yale professor Marissa King notes that, in 2004, 30% of Americans reported having a close work friend, down from nearly half in 1985.

Twenty years later, more than one-third (35%) of workers in jobs that can be done remotely are engaged in fully remote jobs, with another 41% working hybrid schedules. Though it may free up time and minimize commute stress, working from home generally means contact with coworkers may be limited to chat, email, and virtual meetings.

5. Social media and digital communication

Although technology and social media may have enabled us to connect instantly and maintain long-distance relationships, some psychologists and sociologists have raised concerns about moving so much of our social lives online. In decades past, most social interactions happened face-to-face, but the rise of social media and digital communication seems to have profoundly altered the social landscape.

While research is still in its infancy, there is some evidence to suggest that face-to-face communication may be associated with better mental health outcomes, which could indicate that the shared experiences fostered through in-person interactions may provide deeper social and psychological benefits.

Social media may both fuel and fight loneliness

In an increasingly online world, it may be worth examining the role of social media more closely. Social media can be a vital link to friends and loved ones, and it can connect us with supportive communities we may not encounter otherwise. However, excessive online immersion can become a substitute for more meaningful interactions, and it may negatively impact the quality and quantity of real-world social situations.

Whether social media helps or hurts us socially is not yet fully understood and may depend on the nature of an individual’s social media use. Negative experiences, like cyberbullying, may trigger or worsen a sense of loneliness and perceived social isolation, while positive interactions could help us sense we are more connected. As such, try to remain mindful of how your social media habits are affecting your mental health.

Mental and physical health effects of social isolation

Humans tend to be social creatures, relying on one another for mental, emotional, and practical support, and without a strong social network, individuals may be vulnerable to an array of negative mental and physical health effects. In addition to the emotional toll of loneliness, social isolation can be a known risk factor for mental health conditions like depression and anxiety, often acting as both a symptom and causal factor. 

Social isolation and loneliness are also typically associated with negative physical health outcomes. Research has established a link between these life circumstances and an increased risk of heart disease, stroke, arthritis, and mobility impairment. Additionally, both social isolation and loneliness can elevate mortality rates, making them significant public health concerns.

While the exact mechanisms are not well understood, some propose that social integration reinforces healthy behaviors, improves access to healthcare, and reduces stress. Additionally, loneliness and isolation may contribute to increased cardiovascular risk, inflammation, and disrupted sleep, which can accelerate aging and elevate the risk of conditions like heart disease and dementia.

Practical strategies for forging new friendships

While it may be more difficult to make new friends in the modern age, expanding your social network can be an important step toward improved health and quality of life. Here are some tips to help.

1. Attend local events and gatherings

Use social platforms and local publications to find social happenings near you. Whether it’s a community fair, networking event, or neighborhood meetup, these events can help you connect with your community and meet potential friends.

2. Get involved in your community

Charities, political organizations, and neighborhood associations can be good ways to meet others who share your values. Seeking out volunteer opportunities that align with causes about which you care can help you forge new friendships and enact meaningful change.

3. Pursue hobbies and passions

No matter what you’re interested in, you can likely find a club, league, or group that shares your enthusiasm. Browse social networking platforms to find one dedicated to your hobbies and passions.

4. Get to know your neighbors

Introduce yourself to your neighbors and take small steps to build relationships, such as chatting during walks or attending neighborhood events. Building a local support network can foster a sense of belonging and make your community seem more like home.

5. Reconnect with old friends

Reach out to old friends you’ve lost touch with through a message or phone call, expressing interest in catching up. Rekindling these relationships can provide comfort and familiarity, helping to reestablish meaningful connections.

Online mental health support for social isolation

If you’re struggling with loneliness and social isolation, it may be worth connecting with a mental health professional. A licensed therapist can help you set goals, improve social skills, and identify any underlying issues that may be affecting your ability to thrive socially. With BetterHelp, you can connect with a compassionate therapist specializing in your area of need for weekly virtual sessions. 

Online therapy can be just as effective as in-person therapy for addressing a variety of mental health concerns. It may be ideal for those seeking a convenient, low-cost way to access mental health care. With tools and features like group sessions, digital therapy worksheets, and guided journaling, you can get the most out of your mental health investment. 

Takeaway

The "friendship recession" generally refers to the decline in close friendships and social connections, driven by factors like an increased reliance on technology, cultural and economic trends, and sprawling, car-dependent infrastructure. This phenomenon may be contributing to a loneliness epidemic, which public health authorities warn could impact mental and physical health. For support, consider working with a therapist in your local area or through an online therapy platform.