I stopped using and posting on Meta’s socials because I became addicted to their mechanics. Scrolling, liking, checking my likes, regularly posting stories, and constantly checking their views.

I attached my self-worth to my reach and engagement stats. It was a rewarding game—sometimes. But more often than not, disappointment is all I collected. Day after day. Week after week. This addiction to the feed was hurting me. I felt alone and misunderstood. Was I not worthy of attention?

Years went by before I learned there was nothing wrong with me. I closed all my accounts and told my closest friends about the change. Nobody was genuinely shocked. Most told me they wish they could do the same.

I jumped ship early enough before things got much worse. And while my relationship to social media hasn’t completely healed yet, I’m glad I parted ways with the person I had become.