But why do we do it? Why can’t we resist the pull of these devastating stories? And what are the consequences of constantly consuming negative news? In this article, we’ll explore the psychology behind doomscrolling and offer some tips for breaking the cycle. Also, check out our essay database, where you can find thousands of free papers on the most acute topics.
What Is Doomscrolling
The term “doomscrolling” gained popularity in early 2020 to describe a digital behavior that became more prevalent during the COVID-19 pandemic due to physical isolation. Initially coined in 2018 and later popularized by journalist Karen Ho, doomscrolling refers to continuously and obsessively scrolling through social media feeds, primarily focusing on distressing, depressing, or harmful content.
*Check out Karen Ho’s Doomscrolling Reminder Bot, which reminds you to take a break and stop doomscrolling.
Doomscrolling differs from regular scrolling in terms of its content and psychological impact. While scrolling typically involves navigating through various types of content, including news, entertainment, or social updates, doomscrolling involves getting trapped in a cycle of consuming alarming headlines, gloomy statistics, and disheartening stories. Unlike regular scrolling, which can be casual and enjoyable, doomscrolling tends to be more compulsive and emotionally draining, leading to increased anxiety, stress, and a sense of helplessness.
10 Signs You Are Doomscrolling
Here are several signs that you are most probably doomscrolling:
- You endlessly swipe through feeds without realizing how much time has passed.
- Your primary attention is on distressing, harmful, or alarming news, often disregarding positive or neutral stories.
- You struggle to put your device down or can’t resist the urge to keep scrolling, even when it’s affecting your mood or productivity.
- You frequently feel anxious, overwhelmed, or upset after being online.
- You have trouble falling asleep or have restless nights.
- You can’t fully concentrate on other tasks and responsibilities.
- You can’t break the cycle of encountering more distressing information.
- You underestimate the time you spend scrolling, realizing later that it has eaten up a substantial portion of your day.
- You have frequent headaches, eye strain, or muscle tension from prolonged screen time.
- You prioritize scrolling through negative news over engaging in self-care activities or pursuing hobbies.
The Science Behind Doomscrolling
According to a survey published in Health Communication, approximately 16.5% of the 1,100 participants surveyed displayed signs of excessive problematic news consumption, contributing to higher stress levels, anxiety, and a negative impact on overall health. The question is, what mechanisms in our brain pull us into this vicious cycle?
Doomscrolling can be partly explained by our brain’s reward system. When we encounter novel or unexpected information, it triggers dopamine release, which is associated with pleasure and reward. Our brain becomes conditioned to expect this reward, leading to a cycle of seeking out and consuming more negative information, even though it may be psychologically distressing.
Moreover, due to its evolutionary significance, our brain is wired to pay more attention to negative information. This negativity bias is a survival mechanism and helps us identify potential environmental threats and dangers. When something as important as the COVID-19 pandemic happens, we strive to consume as much information as possible because we think that the more we know, the more prepared we are. Although we begin this behavior as a deliberate action – trying to find information in a crisis – we get trapped in the loop of automatic and unintentional doomscrolling.
Who Is More Likely to Doomscroll
Studies show that individuals prone to anxiety, depression, or obsessive-compulsive behaviors are more likely to engage in doomscrolling. The following are people who are at high risk of doomscrolling:
- Those diagnosed with generalized anxiety disorder often experience heightened anxiety levels, making them more likely to engage in doomscrolling to stay informed.
- Individuals who struggle with depression may find themselves drawn to doomscrolling to reinforce negative beliefs or as a form of self-validation.
- Those with obsessive-compulsive disorder may exhibit compulsive behaviors, including a need to stay updated with news and information.
- People who have experienced trauma or have post-traumatic stress disorder may engage in doomscrolling to anticipate potential threats in their environment.
However, it’s important to note that while these individuals may be more likely to engage in doomscrolling, the behavior can affect anyone, regardless of their condition. Doomscrolling is common among news and social media enthusiasts, highly stressed individuals, and empathetic individuals who feel responsible for staying informed and connected.
How Doomscrolling Affects You
In today’s digital world, doomscrolling has become a prevalent habit. As we mindlessly scroll through negative news and information streams, the impact on our mental and emotional well-being cannot be ignored. Let’s delve into how doomscrolling affects our mental health and other aspects of our daily life.
Impact on Mental Health
Doomscrolling can have various negative effects on our mental health:
- Increased anxiety. Constantly consuming negative news can contribute to heightened anxiety as our minds focus on worst-case scenarios and potential threats.
- Higher stress levels. Doomscrolling can trigger the release of stress hormones, leading to increased tension in our bodies and minds.
- Negative mood and emotional well-being. Continuous exposure to distressing news can make us feel down, overwhelmed, and hopeless, affecting our overall mood and emotional state.
- Poor sleep quality. Doomscrolling, especially before bedtime, can disrupt sleep patterns and result in insomnia or difficulties falling asleep.
- Impact on self-esteem. Comparing ourselves to the negative headlines and experiences of others can impact our self-esteem and contribute to feelings of inadequacy or helplessness.
- Triggering mental health conditions. For individuals already struggling with mental health conditions such as anxiety, depression, or trauma-related disorders, doomscrolling can exacerbate symptoms and trigger episodes.
Impact on Other Aspects
In addition to its impact on mental health, doomscrolling can affect people in the following ways:
- Reduced productivity and motivation. Spending excessive time online can hinder productivity, diverting our attention from important tasks and goals.
- Time wastage. Engaging in doomscrolling can lead to significant time wastage, as hours pass unnoticed while scrolling through endless negative content.
- Physical health implications. Extended periods of sitting or lying down while scrolling through screens can contribute to a sedentary lifestyle, potentially leading to health issues like obesity, cardiovascular problems, and muscular imbalances.
- Relationship strain. Excessive doomscrolling can negatively impact relationships, as it takes away time and attention that could be dedicated to personal connections. One might also become overly irritated and release anger on their loved ones.
- Impaired focus and attention. Constant exposure to negative news and chaotic information through doomscrolling can impair our ability to focus and concentrate on essential tasks. This can result in reduced cognitive performance and difficulties in retaining information.
- Energy drain. Engaging in doomscrolling can leave individuals feeling emotionally drained and mentally exhausted. The constant exposure to distressing news can deplete their energy reserves and lead to emotional burnout.
How to Stop Doomscrolling
Breaking the doomscrolling habit is a process that requires conscious effort and dedication. By implementing these tips, you can regain control over your digital habits and cultivate a healthier relationship with information consumption:
In today’s digital age, it’s easy to become consumed by negative news and information. Doomscrolling can have a significant impact on our mental health and overall well-being. It can lead to feelings of depression, anxiety, and hopelessness. However, there are ways to combat this negative behavior and prioritize our mental health.
Remember that we can outsmart the algorithm and develop a healthier relationship with our digital devices. Implementing strategies to limit doomscrolling, finding alternative sources of information, and engaging in positive activities can contribute to a more balanced and fulfilling life.
