The internet offers instant access to a world of information, but not all of it is good for us. One behavior that’s become increasingly common—and harmful—is doomscrolling: the habit of endlessly consuming negative news, especially on social media. It’s not just a trend; it’s a mental health red flag.
As explained in Healthline, doomscrolling became widespread during the COVID-19 pandemic, when many people were desperate for updates during a time of crisis. This behavior often begins unconsciously—reaching for your phone to check updates—but quickly snowballs into compulsive scrolling that’s difficult to stop.
What Doomscrolling Does to Your Health
Research shows doomscrolling can have a measurable impact on both mental and physical health. It’s been linked to increased anxiety, depression, and stress, as well as physical symptoms like headaches, muscle tension, poor sleep, and loss of appetite. A 2024 study found doomscrolling led to heightened existential anxiety and a pessimistic worldview in both the U.S. and Iran. Similarly, a 2023 study in Türkiye revealed increased depression and stress among earthquake survivors who engaged in the habit.
This behavior creates a feedback loop: the more negative content you consume, the more you feel compelled to seek it out. That urge is reinforced by small dopamine hits—moments of stimulation and anticipation that make it feel productive, even as it undermines well-being.
Why We Can’t Stop—And How to Try
Part of doomscrolling’s grip lies in our desire for control during uncertain times. Constant updates can create the illusion of preparedness. But absorbing endless streams of bad news leaves little room to emotionally process events, keeping the brain in a state of high alert.
Healthline recommends several ways to cut the habit:
Set time limits on news and social apps.
Delete or hide news apps to reduce temptation.
Ask loved ones to help you recognize when you’ve fallen into the pattern.
Take tech breaks and designate others to alert you only to truly important news.
If doomscrolling is significantly affecting your health or functioning, it may be time to speak with a mental health professional.
The digital world isn’t going anywhere—but how we interact with it can, and should, be managed for the sake of our health.
