Is It Normal To Talk To Random People Online?

In the 21st century, hundreds to thousands of technological advances have been made in the realms of communication and social connection. With billions of people worldwide using social media and the internet, some may wonder whether it’s normal to talk to strangers online or use the internet to meet others. You’re not alone, so exploring this topic may help you find safe and healthy ways to connect with strangers online. 

Is it normal to talk to random people online? 

Millions of people from all over the world are online daily, and many are talking to strangers. Chatting with strangers can occur on social media sites like Facebook and X (formerly Twitter) or chat rooms and internet dating sites. Although some people who talk to random people online intend to be friendly, online chatting may be unhealthy when done unsafely or following dependency on the internet. 

To understand online chat usage, knowing that online chatting with strangers is common and normal can be helpful. If you use social media sites like X, you may find that communicating with people you don’t know takes up much of your time online. You might also find it fun to have a brief exchange with someone from a completely different part of the world. However, there are situations where chatting with strangers online can become dangerous. For instance, if you’re seeking a connection online, some people may trick you or steal your sensitive information. 

Talking to strangers can make it easier for individuals not to be themselves. In addition, some individuals may be at risk of internet addiction, which can occur due to loneliness or difficulty socializing offline. If online chatting is becoming a problem for you, understand that you are not alone. Millions navigate challenges like internet addiction, and mental health professionals are available to support you. 

What is internet addiction?

Addiction occurs when one becomes psychologically or physically dependent on a substance, action, or unique situation. In the DSM-5, internet gaming disorder (IGD) involves excessive internet and online gaming use that interferes negatively with one’s daily functioning. 

If you are struggling with substance use, contact the SAMHSA National Helpline at (800) 662-4357 to receive support and resources. Support is available 24/7.

Talking to people online occasionally does not necessarily mean you have an internet addiction. If online chatting does not cause functional difficulties for you and you believe you have these behaviors under control, it may be healthy. However, if you are experiencing severe distress due to your internet habits, it may be helpful to talk to a therapist, which you can also do online. 

What are the benefits of talking to strangers online? 

Some people talk to strangers online because it offers a sense of namelessness that can’t be found offline. There may be subjects you want to discuss that you’re uncomfortable discussing with someone you know. In these cases, online chat can be comforting and offer a social outlet. 

With strangers, you may not have to worry about being judged or experiencing shame because you are unknown. In addition, if you’re not using a video call with this person, you may be able to remain invisible to them, which can allow you to keep your identity a secret. 

Can I trust people online?

A study of 320 individuals was done to determine if people were honest when chatting online. The researchers found that men were likelier than women to lie about their financial status, and women often lied for safety reasons. When using online services, it can be beneficial to keep your identity safe. Follow the following internet safety tips to get started: 

• Don’t give anyone online your address, full name, or birthday. 
• Don’t plan to meet up with someone without verifying they are real using a video chat and asking them to hold up a sign with their name and the date. 
• Don’t talk to strange adults online or meet an adult you met online if you’re a minor. 
• Don’t buy gift cards for or send wire transfers to a stranger online. 

Are online support groups helpful? 

If you have a concern about your mental health or have received a diagnosis of a mental health condition, chat groups may be available to address those challenges. For some people, chatting with someone online who is navigating the same circumstances can be comforting. The online group may also allow you to tell your story and talk about your feelings. 

However, not all people in online support groups may want to get better or learn to manage their condition. They may only be there to complain or spread pessimistic thoughts. In a group that is unregulated by a therapist or moderator, the negativity of others may lead you to despair. In addition, people who are not professionals may try to give you unhelpful or unprofessional advice. This advice can cause harm if it contradicts your treatment plan or dissuades you from seeking professional support. 

Chatting in a support group, whether online or in person, can be normal and safe. However, support groups do not replace professional mental health services. If you’re seeking higher-quality support, trying online group therapy with a licensed therapist may be beneficial. 

Should I stop talking to strangers online? 

If you enjoy chatting online with strangers and believe it is helpful, it may be healthy to continue if you don’t believe you’re living with an internet addiction. In addition, using internet safety tips can ensure you remain safe during chats. 

If you are struggling with your amount of internet usage, the types of content you’re seeking online, or the advice people are giving you online, it may be helpful to discuss these challenges with a therapist. A therapist can guide you in making your internet routine healthier. 

Can you chat with a professional online? 

Research shows that text therapy—as a component of an online therapy treatment plan—effectively reduces symptoms that arise from various mental illnesses. One study found that online-delivered text therapy ensured long-term engagement in a comprehensive therapy program. 

The study specifically found that chat therapy could be valuable when therapists used cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT), a widely accepted treatment method for addiction, anxiety, and other conditions. CBT works by reframing thoughts to avoid compulsory behaviors, such as excessive or problematic use of random online chat forums.

Online therapy platforms like BetterHelp allow clients to talk to a counselor via phone, video, or live chat sessions. If you enjoy chatting online, chatting to a therapist may be beneficial. Outside of sessions, you can also send your therapist a message, receiving a response as soon as they are available.