It’s never been easier to connect with others in the digital world and many of us are forming and maintaining friendships online. These connections can be meaningful and supportive, especially when we find people with similar interests or values, and it can help us to feel connected in a busy world where people are constantly on the move.
At the same time, the rise of online interactions brings new challenges. It can blur the lines between genuine connection and passive scrolling, or between feeling socially engaged and actually being emotionally fulfilled. We often hear people describe feeling more connected than ever, yet lonelier underneath the surface.
It’s important to pause and consider the impact when our relationships exist primarily through screens. Real-life connections offer something that’s hard to replicate digitally, such as the subtle non-verbal cues, the warmth of presence and the spontaneity of shared experiences. These moments build deeper emotional attunement and, over time, a stronger sense of trust and belonging.
So how do we find balance?
It’s not about choosing one or the other but being intentional. You might ask yourself “Do my online friendships energise me, or do they drain me?” “Do I make space for face-to-face moments that ground me in the present?” Consider setting gentle boundaries with screen time and prioritising in-person interactions when possible, even if it’s just a short walk with a friend or a coffee with a colleague.
In therapy, we often explore the quality of connection, not just the quantity. So take time to reflect on how your relationships, both online and offline, are serving you. The goal is balance and that starts with awareness.
Author: Dr Sarah Childs
Clinical Psychologist
