As one of the most popular social media platforms among millennials and Gen Z, Snapchat has continuously introduced new features to keep users engaged. One of the most prominent features of this app is “streaks”.

So, what are streaks on Snapchat?

In simple words, streaks are a symbol of friendship and commitment between two Snapchat users. When two people send direct snaps to each other within 24 hours, they maintain their streak, and the flame emoji appears next to their names. As the days go by, the number next to the flame increases as long as neither party breaks the 24-hour rule.

Streaks also come with rewards, including Snapchat trophies as users reach specific milestones. Besides being a fun way to stay connected, streaks have a competitive edge to them, as users aim to achieve the highest streaks with their friends.

While streaks may seem harmless, they have raised concerns among mental health experts, claiming that they can cause anxiety and even addiction. Moreover, some users may feel the pressure to maintain streaks even when they are busy or unwell, leading them to send snaps even when it isn’t necessary.

It is crucial to remember that Snapchat has a “streaks extinguished” policy where streaks automatically disappear when there is no engagement between friends for more than 24 hours. So, it is essential to keep communication open if you want to maintain streaks.

It is also vital to remember that the worth of a friendship should not be determined by an online feature. So, if you decide to opt-out of using streaks, don’t feel guilty about it.

In conclusion, streaks are a fun way to stay connected with your Snapchat friends, but it is essential to use them in moderation. Don’t let them create unwanted stress in your life, and remember that maintaining an online connection should not replace a face-to-face conversation.