The Psychology of Doomscrolling: Why We Can’t Stop
Have you ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through your phone, especially when the news seems gloomy or stressful? This habit has a name: doomscrolling. It’s something many people around the world experience without fully understanding why. In this article, we’ll explore the science behind doomscrolling and how it affects our attention and mood.
What Is Doomscrolling?
Doomscrolling is the act of continuously consuming negative news and content on social media or news websites. It often happens when people feel anxious or uncertain, causing them to keep searching for updates even if those updates make them feel worse.
But why do we do it? Why can’t we just stop? To answer that, we must look at the psychological and neurological factors at play.
The Science Behind Doomscrolling
Our Brain’s Natural Response to Threat
Humans evolved to pay close attention to threats for survival. This means that our brains are wired to notice bad news or danger quickly. When we see negative information, it activates the amygdala, a part of the brain involved in processing fear and emotions.
This reaction causes a strong emotional response, which can make negative news feel more urgent and important than positive news. As a result, we become drawn to bad news, even if it causes stress.
The Role of the Attention System
Our attention system also plays a role. Social media platforms are designed to keep us engaged by showing us content that triggers strong reactions. Negative news often grabs attention more effectively than neutral or positive news. This creates a cycle where we keep scrolling to try to find more information, hoping to feel prepared or in control.
Stress and the Release of Cortisol
Exposure to constant negative news can increase stress levels by raising cortisol, the body’s stress hormone. High cortisol levels can affect mood, making us feel anxious, tired, or even depressed. Ironically, this stress can also make us want to keep doomscrolling, hoping to find answers or relief.
How Doomscrolling Impacts Our Mood
The mood effects of doomscrolling are significant. Here’s how it typically affects people:
- Increased anxiety: Continuous exposure to bad news can heighten feelings of worry or fear.
- Feelings of helplessness: Seeing problems without clear solutions can make people feel powerless.
- Negative thought patterns: Repeated exposure to negative content can cause a downward spiral in thinking.
- Sleep disruption: Stress and screen time before bed can interfere with sleep quality.
Why Is Doomscrolling So Hard to Stop?
Despite the negative effects, doomscrolling is hard to quit because:
- It feels like gathering important information: People believe that staying updated helps keep them safe or prepared.
- Social media platforms are addictive: They use algorithms to show content that keeps us engaged.
- It’s a coping mechanism: For some, scrolling is a way to distract from uncertainty or loneliness, even if temporarily harmful.
Tips for Managing Doomscrolling
Breaking the doomscrolling habit can improve your mood and focus. Here are some friendly tips:
- Set time limits: Use phone settings or apps to limit your time on social media.
- Choose trusted news sources: Stick to reliable sources and avoid endless browsing.
- Schedule news breaks: Check the news only at specific times during the day.
- Practice mindfulness: Notice when you’re feeling stressed and take deep breaths or short breaks.
- Engage in positive activities: Spend time with friends, exercise, or enjoy hobbies to balance negative content.
Conclusion
Doomscrolling is a common behavior shaped by our brain’s natural responses and the design of social media platforms. While it can make us feel informed, it often affects our mood and attention negatively. By understanding why we doomscroll and using simple strategies, we can take back control and improve our mental well-being.
Remember, it’s okay to stay informed, but it’s also important to protect your mind. Next time you catch yourself doomscrolling, try pausing, taking a breath, and choosing a positive step forward.