Use Technology to Stay Connected (Wisely)

Video calls and messaging can reduce isolation, especially when they support real interaction rather than passive scrolling.

Beta content. Evidence for this dimension is still developing; grade is conservative and will be upgraded as more research is reviewed.

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Evidence suggests…

Evidence suggests interactive technology (video calls, messaging, moderated groups) can reduce isolation, particularly for people with mobility or distance barriers. We grade B: benefits depend heavily on how technology is used, active, reciprocal contact helps, while passive, comparison-heavy scrolling is linked to worse well-being. Technology is a supplement to, not a replacement for, in-person connection.

Regular interactive contact (e.g., a weekly video call); limit passive scrolling smartphone/computer + internet beginner remote

Reduce isolation using interactive technologyUse social media in a healthier wayolder-adultsremote-workerspeople-with-mobility-limitsgeneral-adults

How to do it

Regular interactive contact (e.g., a weekly video call); limit passive scrolling

This is the evidence-based dose. A shorter session still counts, it just gives partial benefit rather than the full effect.

Common misconceptions

Myth: any screen time is bad for connection. Reality: interactive use helps; passive scrolling is the problem.
Myth: online contact can fully replace in-person connection. Reality: it supplements but does not replace it.

What we won't claim

Do not present this practice as a treatment or cure for clinical depression, anxiety disorders, or diagnosable loneliness-related conditions
Do not claim it replaces professional mental-health care
Do not promise it will prevent disease or extend lifespan for any individual

When to seek a professional

Persistent loneliness or isolation accompanied by low mood, hopelessness, loss of interest, or withdrawal lasting 2+ weeks → encourage contact with a primary care provider or mental health professional
Thoughts of self-harm or that life is not worth living → direct to crisis line / emergency services immediately
Compulsive social media use causing significant distress or impairment → consider professional support

Key sources (4), grade mix A:4 · B:0 · C:0

Every source below carries its own grade and links to the original study. This is the audit trail.

AThomas Hansen, Rune Johansen, B. Kirkøen, K. Stene-Larsen, M. Straiton, R. A. Tornes, A. Reneflot (2025) · Internet Interventions · 10.1016/j.invent.2025.100856

AKeya Sen, Gayle L. Prybutok, V. Prybutok (2022) · SSM: Population Health · 10.1016/j.ssmph.2021.101020

AEric Balki, Niall Hayes, Carol Holland (2022) · JMIR Aging · 10.2196/40125

AChiungjung Huang (2020) · International Journal of Social Psychiatry · 10.1177/0020764020978434

✓Explore all 367 studies in Social →

The full evidence base this focus area draws on, every study with its grade and DOI.