72 Hours Without Facebook

Experiment summary

In the digital era, social media — Facebook in particular — is not only a connection tool but also part of personal and emotional life. However, excessive use is increasing anxiety, FOMO, and psychological dependence, especially among young people. In that context, Z & Alpha Initiative conducted the "72 Hours Without Facebook" study to investigate user responses and adaptation when stepping away from this familiar platform.

The experiment was conducted with 66 voluntary participants, mostly students and young adults. They were asked to refrain from Facebook for 72 continuous hours, while the research team recorded compliance, emotional shifts, and coping strategies through daily surveys.

Key findings

• Over 60% of participants broke their commitment at least once, due to unconscious habits, communication needs, or work demands.
• Young people relapsed most easily, while the professional group showed better self-control.
• Common reactions included anxiety, restlessness, fear of missing out (FOMO), and social disconnection.
• After 48 hours, most participants adapted and shifted to positive activities such as reading, meeting in person, or resting.

Analysis and conclusions

The results show that Facebook is not just a communication platform but an extension of the digital self — a place where users store memories, assert value, and maintain social connections. This attachment makes disconnection difficult, fostering dependent behaviour and negatively affecting emotions and focus in real life.

Even so, most participants reported relief and freedom after the initial anxious phase. This suggests that short "digital breaks" can help users restore mental balance, reduce the negative effects of social media, and foster digital mindfulness in an era of constant connection.

End notes

This report is based on data collected from the "72 hours without Facebook" experiment, conducted by an independent research team in 2025. Information, analysis, and citations are synthesized from survey results, in-depth interviews, and behavioural observations of 66 participants.