DoomScrolling
Many of the readers who are reading this article may not know they are suffering from Doomscrolling. I would also include myself as many times I have done it myself scrolling on my smartphone continuously for hours and not knowing the time i have wasted on looking at content which was not relevant to my life or work. And it was just entertainment and even stressing my brain on certain content.
In the age of smartphones and 24/7 connectivity, the term “doomscrolling” has gained significant traction. Defined as the act of endlessly scrolling through negative news and social media feeds, doomscrolling can have profound psychological and physical effects. This article delves into the problems associated with doomscrolling and offers practical, technology-driven solutions to mitigate its impact.
The Problems of Doomscrolling
Psychological Distress
Doomscrolling can lead to increased levels of anxiety, stress, and depression. Constant exposure to negative news can create a pervasive sense of hopelessness, making it challenging to maintain a positive outlook. This vicious cycle of seeking out distressing information further exacerbates mental health issues, leaving individuals trapped in a loop of negativity.
With the new Algorithm on websites and search engines, they intend to provide content which you are frequently watching online. For Example: If you are watching crime-related news or videos, you will find, that search engines or websites like YouTube, Twitter, and Facebook reels and videos suggest such kinds of videos on your screen. There is nothing wrong with the website, the Algorithm assumes you like such kinds of videos and articles and provides you more with such kinds of content.
Sleep Disruption
Blue light from screens disrupts melatonin production, which is crucial for sleep regulation. Coupled with the psychological burden of consuming distressing news, doomscrolling before bedtime can result in poor sleep quality and insomnia, significantly impacting overall health and daily functioning.
Decreased Productivity
Doomscrolling is a major distraction that saps time and energy from productive activities. It can hinder work performance, academic progress, and personal projects. The incessant flow of negative news can demotivate individuals, creating a sense of futility that hampers goal achievement.
Social Isolation
While social media and news platforms can foster connections, excessive doomscrolling often leads to social isolation. People may become so engrossed in their screens that they neglect real-life relationships, diminishing their social support networks and increasing feelings of loneliness.
Solutions to Combat Doomscrolling
Set Time Limits with Technology
Utilize apps and device settings to enforce strict time limits on news consumption and social media use. Tools like screen time trackers and app limiters can help create healthier habits by restricting the amount of time spent doomscrolling. Scheduling specific times of day for checking news can prevent constant exposure to negative information.
Curate Your Feed with AI
Leverage artificial intelligence to curate your news feed. Follow sources that provide balanced reporting and minimize exposure to sensationalist content. Unfollow or mute accounts that consistently post negative news. AI-driven content filters can help create a more positive and informative online experience.
Practice Digital Mindfulness
Incorporate digital mindfulness practices into your daily routine to manage stress and curb the urge to doomscroll. Techniques such as meditation apps, guided breathing exercises, and virtual yoga sessions can promote mental well-being and provide a sense of calm. Increased awareness of how doomscrolling affects your mood can make it easier to break the habit.
Engage in Positive Digital Activities
Replace doomscrolling with digital activities that promote positivity and well-being. Use fitness apps, engage in online hobbies, participate in virtual gatherings with loved ones, and explore creative pursuits through digital platforms. These activities can provide a healthy distraction from negative news and improve overall mental health.
Seek Professional Help Online
If doomscrolling significantly impacts your mental health, consider seeking help from online mental health professionals. Teletherapy and virtual counselling sessions can provide strategies to manage anxiety and stress, offering healthier coping mechanisms. Cognitive-behavioral therapy (CBT) sessions conducted online can be particularly effective in addressing the negative thought patterns associated with doomscrolling.
Conclusion
Doomscrolling is a pervasive modern issue with serious implications for mental and physical health. By understanding the problems associated with this behaviour and implementing technology-driven solutions, individuals can take control of their news consumption and enhance their overall well-being. Setting time limits, curating news feeds with AI, practising digital mindfulness, engaging in positive digital activities, and seeking professional help online are all effective strategies to combat doomscrolling and foster a healthier relationship with information.
Taking proactive steps to stay informed without succumbing to the negative effects of constant exposure to distressing news is essential in today’s digital age.
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