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The Shift in Celebrity Social Media Engagement

In recent years, having an Instagram account has become almost synonymous with celebrity status. Red carpet events are often followed by social media posts, film announcements come with curated captions, and personal milestones are showcased through meticulously staged photos. Social media has transitioned from being an optional tool to an essential part of a celebrity's career. However, a new trend is emerging: many stars are choosing to step back from their online presence, not to create intrigue, but to safeguard their mental health.

When the Pressure Becomes Overwhelming

In early 2026, singer Neha Kakkar surprised her followers by announcing her decision to take a complete break from social media. She requested privacy from paparazzi, a rare move in an industry that thrives on constant visibility. The burden of expectations and emotional labor had become too much for her to handle online. This decision resonated with many, as it was not an isolated incident. In November 2025, actor Ronit Roy shared his own journey of a 'digital detox', stepping away from online platforms to focus on his mental and spiritual health and to develop healthier daily routines.

Similarly, in September 2025, Anushka Shetty, a leading actress in South India, revealed her temporary hiatus from social media, expressing her desire to disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with reality, promising to return with fresh stories for her fans. In August 2025, Hrithik Roshan also took a break from social media, describing it as a significant shift that allowed him to appreciate stillness and understand the value of presence and free time.

This trend is becoming increasingly common, with other actors like Kajol, Aamir Khan, Karan Johar, Sonakshi Sinha, Fatima Sana Shaikh, and Saqib Saleem also reducing their online activity.

Navigating a Hostile Digital Environment

In a time when every comment section can feel like a public trial, prioritizing mental health over virtual validation has become a bold choice. Celebrities often find themselves in a uniquely challenging digital landscape where fandom can quickly turn aggressive, opinions morph into judgments, and silence can be misinterpreted as arrogance or guilt.

A Warning from Hollywood

Hollywood stars had already raised concerns about the pressures of social media years ago. Elizabeth Olsen, known for her role in Marvel films, left social media in 2020, describing it as emotionally taxing and inauthentic. She highlighted the pressure to present a curated version of herself rather than her true self. Zayn Malik has also taken breaks, citing emotional distress, while other celebrities like Megan Fox, Chrissy Teigen, Alec Baldwin, and Lana Del Rey have openly discussed their retreats from social media to safeguard their mental well-being.

Babil Khan: The Cost of Authenticity

Babil Khan's experience exemplifies the emotional intricacies of social media. Unlike many celebrities who curate a polished online image, Babil has been candid about his feelings, sharing moments of vulnerability and grief. However, this honesty has often led to trolling and harsh criticism, forcing him to step back and reminding audiences that being authentic online can come with significant personal costs.

Across various industries and cultures, the reasons for distancing from social media are strikingly similar. For numerous celebrities, prioritizing mental health has become crucial, as relentless criticism and comparisons can wear down even the most self-assured individuals. The culture of outrage on social media fosters toxicity, making public figures easy targets, especially during challenging times.

Reclaiming Control Over Fame

What we are witnessing is not a disappearance of celebrities but rather a reclamation of their autonomy. In a culture that often equates access with entitlement, stepping away from social media is becoming a powerful statement. Silence, it seems, may be the most impactful post of all.

Expert Insights on Social Media Detox

When celebrities withdraw from social media, it’s easy to attribute it solely to trolling or negative press. However, there are deeper psychological factors at play, such as overstimulation and dopamine fatigue. Social media continuously bombards the brain with rewards—likes, views, and validation. Over time, this constant stimulation can diminish the pleasure derived from these interactions.

Taking a break from social media can serve as a form of dopamine detox. Here are some practical psychological strategies that can help anyone regain control:

• Awareness: Recognizing the extent of social media usage is uncomfortable but essential.
• Reflection: Consider what has been neglected—sleep, health, relationships, focus?
• Setting Boundaries: Reallocate free time to people, physical activity, and rest instead of endless content consumption.

Simple tools can assist in this process: turning off non-essential notifications, deleting unnecessary apps, using timers for social media, and switching to grey mode on devices to reduce stimulation. Withdrawal symptoms can occur, including irritability and frustration, especially in the first couple of weeks. During these urges, grounding techniques such as reading, washing your face, deep breathing, or taking a short walk can be beneficial.

- Dr. Sachin Kaushik, Mind Peace Hospital, Panchkula