Give Instagram Users the Option to Disable Reels

Instagram is an important social platform for staying connected with friends, family, communities, and the wider world. But for many users, Instagram Reels have turned the app into something very different from what they originally signed up for: an endless stream of short-form video designed to capture attention for as long as possible.

For people who struggle with ADHD, anxiety, compulsive scrolling, or simply want more control over their attention, Reels can be especially difficult to manage. The problem is not that short videos exist. The problem is that users currently have no simple way to opt out of them while continuing to use Instagram for its core social features.

Deleting Instagram is not a realistic solution for many people. It can mean losing access to friends, group chats, creative communities, small businesses, events, and important social connections. Users should not have to choose between staying connected and protecting their focus.

We are asking Instagram to add a simple account setting that allows users to disable Reels.

This setting could remove Reels from the main feed, Explore page, profile recommendations, and navigation tabs for users who choose to turn it off. It does not need to affect anyone who enjoys Reels. It would simply give users more control over how they use the platform.

This would be a meaningful step toward healthier, more accessible, and more user-respecting design. Not every user wants the same experience. Some people come to Instagram for messages and photos. Some come for creators and communities. Some enjoy Reels. Others find them harmful to their focus, mental well-being, or daily life.

Giving users a choice is not anti-Instagram. It is pro-user.

Other platforms already offer tools for muting, filtering, limiting, or customizing types of content. Instagram should do the same for Reels. A disable-Reels option would help users build a healthier relationship with the app without forcing them to leave the platform entirely.

We urge Instagram and Meta to give users the option to turn off Reels in account settings.

Please sign this petition if you believe people should have more control over their attention, their time, and the way they use social media.