Keeping up with friends is starting to feel like another item on the to-do list for many adults.
According to the Social Refresh Report, 52% of adults say maintaining friendships now feels like a second job. Between responding to texts, making plans, checking in regularly, and trying to match busy schedules, many people say staying connected has become exhausting.
The report found that adults may be more connected online than ever, but many are spending less meaningful time together in person. The average adult reportedly has about eight friends, but only considers four of them close friends.
Work, family responsibilities, relationships, and personal commitments can make it difficult to maintain the same friendships people had when they were younger. Even when there is love between friends, long gaps in communication can sometimes cause people to feel ignored or forgotten.
Experts say strong friendships do not always require constant texting or weekly plans. What matters most is communication, understanding, and making an effort when it counts. Some friendships may need daily contact, while others can remain strong even when months pass between conversations.
The findings raise an important question: Has maintaining friendships become harder at this stage of your life, or do your closest friends understand that life sometimes gets busy?