Meta quietly drops study showing Facebook breaks help mental health

Technology Nov 24, 2025

Meta has pulled the plug on a study after it found that taking time off Facebook can actually lower anxiety and loneliness.
The research, called "Project Mercury," started in late 2019 to see how Facebook and Instagram affect users' emotional wellbeing—but instead of sharing the results, Meta just ended the project.

Lawsuit brings findings—and Meta's choices—into the spotlight

These findings clash with what Meta has said about its platforms being safe.
The study only came to light through court documents in a lawsuit accusing social media giants of risking young people's mental health while downplaying the effects.
With state attorneys general leading the charge, more internal Meta documents could soon be public, putting transparency and user safety front and center for everyone watching.