Doomscrolling: The Cycle of Information Overload
According to clinical psychologist Regan Price, the phenomenon of doomscrolling occurs when people seek resolution to current issues by continuously scrolling through news and social media in search of more information. “When we’re doomscrolling, we’re kind of looking for the resolution to the issue. Read some more posts. Read some more articles. If I get more information, then maybe I’ll understand the problem,” Price explains.
Impact on Mental Health and Interpersonal Relationships
Price emphasizes that doomscrolling doesn’t just affect individuals, but it can also have wider societal consequences. When people collectively experience stress from global events, it can lead to increased tension and irritability, causing individuals to be more likely to “snap at each other.” Bethany Teachman, a psychology professor at the University of Virginia, highlights the importance of recognizing the systemic impact of this behavior. “When you have multiple people who are struggling, they’re going to have a harder time communicating together,” Teachman emphasizes.
Understanding the Distorted Perception
Teachman warns that doomscrolling can distort one’s perception of reality, leading individuals to believe that everything and everyone is the worst. The constant exposure to negative news stories can create a sense of constant danger and vulnerability, affecting one’s mental well-being. She urges people to recognize when it’s time to log off and take a break from the overwhelming content.
Finding a Balance
In terms of solutions, Teachman advises individuals to limit their exposure to social media and news to maintain a balanced life. While staying informed is essential, it’s important to recognize when the consumption of news becomes overwhelming and detrimental to mental health. Once individuals have obtained enough information, they should engage in activities that bring them joy and support their mental well-being.
Ultimately, Teachman stresses that it’s not about labeling doomscrolling as inherently bad, but rather about understanding how it fits into a person’s life and its impact. By finding a balance and being mindful of the effects of excessive news consumption, individuals can mitigate the negative consequences of doomscrolling on their mental health and interpersonal relationships.
I have over 10 years of experience in the field of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology. I have attended numerous conferences and events around the world, and my work has been featured in major publications such as CoinDesk, Bitcoin Magazine, and Yahoo Finance.
