Anxiety, depression, and other negative effects of doom-scrolling

Health risks of doom-scrolling: One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of doom-scrolling is the increase in anxiety and stress levels (Image: Canva)

In today’s digital age, where information is at our fingertips, a disturbing trend known as doom-scrolling has emerged. This habit, characterised by the constant consumption of negative news, often through social media platforms, can have profound impacts on mental and physical well-being. Although staying informed is important, excessive exposure to distressing content can be detrimental. Here are some negative effects of doom-scrolling:

Increased anxiety and stress

One of the most immediate and noticeable effects of doom-scrolling is the increase in anxiety and stress levels. As you scroll through an endless stream of negative news, whether it be about natural disasters, political turmoil, or health crises, your brain is bombarded with information that triggers a stress response. The constant exposure to distressing news can lead to a state of hyper-vigilance, where you are always on edge, anticipating the next piece of bad news. Over time, this can contribute to chronic stress, which has a host of negative consequences for both mental and physical health.

Disrupted sleep patterns

Doom-scrolling can also severely disrupt your sleep patterns. Many people engage in this habit right before bed, using their smartphones or tablets as a source of late-night entertainment or information. However, the blue light emitted by screens can interfere with the production of melatonin, a hormone that regulates sleep. Moreover, the content itself, often filled with anxiety-inducing information, can make it difficult to relax and unwind. This can lead to difficulty falling asleep, frequent waking during the night, and poor sleep quality overall. Over time, disrupted sleep can lead to more serious health issues, including depression, obesity, and a weakened immune system.

Negative impact on mental health

The perpetual cycle of consuming negative news can take a toll on mental health. It can lead to feelings of helplessness, despair, and even depression. When you are constantly exposed to news about events that are beyond your control, it can create a sense of hopelessness. This feeling of powerlessness can be overwhelming and may contribute to the development of depressive symptoms. Additionally, the constant comparison to others on social media, who may seem unaffected by these global events, can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem.

Impaired concentration and productivity

Doom-scrolling doesn’t just affect your mental health; it can also impair your ability to concentrate and be productive. The habit of constantly checking your phone for the latest news can lead to fragmented attention. Instead of focusing on a single task, you may find yourself distracted by the latest headlines or social media updates. This constant switching between tasks can reduce your overall productivity and make it difficult to complete work efficiently. Moreover, the negative emotions stirred up by doom-scrolling can further diminish your motivation and focus.

Physical health consequences

The physical health consequences of doom-scrolling are not to be underestimated. Chronic stress, often exacerbated by doom-scrolling, is known to contribute to a range of health problems, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, and digestive issues. Additionally, the sedentary behaviour associated with prolonged screen time can lead to physical discomfort, such as neck and back pain, as well as more serious conditions like obesity and metabolic syndrome. The combination of poor mental health and a sedentary lifestyle can create a vicious cycle, where physical health issues further exacerbate mental distress, and vice versa.

Social isolation

While social media is often touted as a way to stay connected, doom-scrolling can lead to social isolation. The constant consumption of negative news can make you withdraw from social interactions, either because you feel overwhelmed by the negativity or because you are too engrossed in your screen to engage with those around you. This withdrawal can lead to feelings of loneliness and isolation, which in turn can have a negative impact on mental health. Furthermore, the negative content you consume can skew your perception of the world, making it difficult to relate to others who may not share the same outlook.