8 ways people are making friends without using social media in 2026
February 12, 2026
Social media promised interpersonal connections that were free from the constraints of time and physical distance. Then why are so many people feeling lonely? A 2024 Harvard study found that 21% of Americans live with serious loneliness, and 73% of respondents think technology is one of the reasons.
To fight this, many people are logging off social media and seeking connections in the physical world. Drawing on research and pop culture, Spokeo outlined eight ways Americans are finding friendship away from social media platforms.
