What's Happening?
Doomscrolling, a term that emerged during the COVID-19 pandemic, refers to the compulsive consumption of negative news on social media. Craig N. Sawchuk, Ph.D., L.P., a psychologist at Mayo Clinic, explains that this behavior is driven by the brain's natural tendency to seek out novelty and threats. During the pandemic, people turned to their devices for information, leading to a cycle of consuming distressing content without relief. Despite the pandemic's end, many continue to struggle with doomscrolling, which can worsen mood, disrupt sleep, and negatively impact social interactions.
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Why It's Important?
Doomscrolling can have significant effects on mental health, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and feelings of helplessness. It can also affect sleep patterns and social relationships, as individuals may spend excessive time online rather than engaging in restorative activities. Understanding the impact of doomscrolling is crucial for developing strategies to mitigate its effects and promote healthier digital habits. By recognizing the signs and setting limits on social media use, individuals can improve their mental well-being and reduce the negative impact of constant exposure to distressing information.
What's Next?
To combat doomscrolling, individuals are encouraged to set time limits on social media use and engage in mood check-ins to assess the impact of their online activity. Apps that monitor screen time can help enforce these limits. Additionally, replacing doomscrolling with healthier activities, such as exercise or spending time with loved ones, can improve mood and overall well-being. As awareness of doomscrolling grows, mental health professionals may develop more targeted interventions to help individuals break free from this cycle.
