Doom Scrolling: How to Recognize and Overcome It
Doom scrolling is a term used to describe the habit of constantly checking and scrolling through negative news and social media feeds, often resulting in increased anxiety, stress, and feelings of despair. With the rise of the COVID-19 pandemic and the 24/7 news cycle, doom scrolling has become a common behavior among many people. But how do you know if you are doom scrolling and how can you overcome it? Here's a 5-point plan to help you recognize when you're doom scrolling and take control of your digital consumption:
Track your time: One of the easiest ways to determine if you are doom scrolling is to track the amount of time you spend on your devices and social media. If you find yourself spending hours each day scrolling through negative news, it may be time to reassess your habits.
Pay attention to your emotions: Doom scrolling often leads to negative emotions such as anxiety, stress, and sadness. If you notice that you feel these emotions after spending time on your devices or social media, it may be a sign that you are doom scrolling.
Take breaks: To combat doom scrolling, it is important to take breaks from your devices and social media. This can include setting aside specific times during the day when you will not check your devices or setting a timer for a certain amount of time to spend on social media.
Seek out positive news and information: To counteract the effects of doom scrolling, it is important to seek out positive news and information. This can include following accounts or sources that share uplifting stories and news, or seeking out positive news stories related to your interests.
Find alternative activities: Finally, finding alternative activities to replace doom scrolling can be a great way to overcome this habit. This can include hobbies, exercise, spending time with friends and family, or volunteering. By focusing your attention on positive and productive activities, you can reduce the time and energy you spend on doom scrolling.
In conclusion, doom scrolling is a common habit among many people, but it is important to recognize the negative impact it can have on our mental health. By following this 5-point plan, you can take control of your digital consumption and overcome the habit of doom scrolling.