ARE WE DOOMED TO SCROLL FOREVER?

You open your phone for a quick update, but before you even know it, you’re already drowning in bad news—wars, epidemic, crimes, calamities. Each scroll pulls you deeper, sending you into a rabbit hole, and you can’t seem to stop. Sound familiar?

Doomscrolling has become a common habit in today's digital age. It’s when you spend countless hours scrolling through your phone, consuming one distressing news story after another, often without realizing how much time has passed. While the first term appeared on Twitter in 2018, it gained widespread recognition in 2020 during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to Alisa Bowman in an article from Mayo Clinic Press (2024), the uncertainty and stress of that time left many people desperate for information—yet no matter how much they consumed, their anxiety only worsened. Instead of feeling reassured, they found themselves trapped in an endless cycle of fear.

With the ongoing worries of this world, even four years after the COVID-19 pandemic, doomscrolling remains a significant threat, affecting both mental and physical well-being. As crises continue to unfold—ranging from economic struggles and political instability to climate disasters and public health concerns—many find themselves stuck in a cycle of compulsively consuming distressing news. A survey conducted in February 2024 found that nearly 1 in 3 U.S. adults who use social media engage in doomscrolling to some extent, with higher rates among younger adults—53% of Gen Z and 46% of Millennials reported this behavior. The constant exposure to negative information keeps individuals in a heightened state of anxiety, making it increasingly difficult to disconnect and regain a sense of calm.

According to Harvard Health Publishing, experts warn that the effects of doomscrolling extend far beyond momentary stress. Physically, prolonged exposure to distressing content can manifest in various symptoms, including persistent headaches, muscle tension, and discomfort in the neck and shoulders due to prolonged screen use and poor posture. Additionally, heightened anxiety caused by doomscrolling can lead to appetite loss, sleep disturbances, and even elevated blood pressure, which may contribute to long-term health risks such as cardiovascular disease. The body’s stress response remains constantly activated, making it difficult to fully relax, rest, or recover.

In a survey from a study by Chirani et. al (2024) that surveyed 800 students, it was found that spending excessive time consuming negative news was linked to feelings of existential anxiety. So, mentally, doomscrolling takes an even deeper toll. With every scroll, individuals are bombarded with distressing headlines that fuel a sense of helplessness and despair. This not only worsens feelings of anxiety and depression but can also distort one's perception of reality, making the world seem far more dangerous and chaotic than it actually is. Over time, this can lead to chronic stress, emotional exhaustion, and an overall decline in mental well-being.

Beyond personal health, doomscrolling also affects productivity and daily functioning. According to WebMD, in an article medically reviewed, the time spent endlessly consuming negative news often replaces time that could be used for self-care, meaningful social interactions, or engaging in fulfilling activities. This creates a cycle where people feel drained yet unable to stop seeking more information, hoping for clarity or reassurance that never truly comes.

But why does it feel almost impossible to stop doomscrolling? The answer lies in how our brains are wired. Negativity bias—our tendency to focus more on threats and dangers than positive experiences—makes distressing news feel more urgent and compelling. Our survival instincts push us to pay closer attention to negative information, as if staying informed will help us prepare for potential risks.

Another driving force is FOMO, or the fear of missing out. In an era where information is constantly flowing, people feel a strong need to stay updated, believing that knowledge equates to control. They scroll endlessly, thinking that being informed will help them manage their fears and uncertainties. However, instead of providing reassurance, this habit often backfires, amplifying anxiety and deepening a sense of helplessness. The more we seek clarity, the more overwhelmed we become, trapped in a cycle of compulsive news consumption.

While staying informed is important, it should not come at the expense of mental well-being. Setting boundaries for news consumption is necessary to break the cycle of doomscrolling. Limiting screen time, curating social media feeds to include positive and constructive content, and practicing mindful consumption can all help in regaining control. Instead of compulsively checking for updates, setting specific times in the day to catch up on news prevents the habit from becoming overwhelming. More importantly, taking action rather than passively consuming distressing information can make a difference. Instead of feeling helpless about the state of the world, engaging in meaningful efforts—whether through spreading awareness, supporting causes, or volunteering—can provide a sense of purpose.

Being informed is essential, but drowning in negativity is not. Doomscrolling doesn’t just rob people of peace of mind—it distorts the perception of reality, making the world seem darker than it is. Instead of letting algorithms dictate what information to consume, people must take control of their digital habits. The next time you catch yourself spiraling into a sea of bad news, pause. Take a step back. Look for balance. Awareness is important, but so is protecting your mental well-being.