Doomscrolling Causes Depression (Lucia)
In the digital age of today, endless social media consumption is a prevalent contributor to depression. Social media platforms can offer positive news and keep us connected. Doomscrolling is the act of mindlessly scrolling through social media; it can also expose us to other forms of content, which can take a toll on mental health.
Endless Exposure to Negative News
Doomscrolling on social media exposes us to many different videos and a constant stream of negative news. On social media, such as TikTok, videos can consist of personal losses and global crises; our brains react strongly to negative stimuli, and this news triggers stress responses. Therefore, constant negative news from social media can lead to hopelessness and enhance symptoms of depression.
Comparison and Social Isolation
While social media can help us easily message our friends and family, it can also enable us to see everything we are missing out on, causing feelings of loneliness. In addition, constant comparison with others and only seeing the highlights of others’ lives can create feelings of inadequacy and fuel social isolation. All the content we see on social media is curated to what the author wants us to see. People don’t always remember that, and it can cause them to believe that they have a worse life than someone else.
Disrupted Sleep Patterns/Fatigue
Doomscrolling often occurs at night when you are trying to fall asleep. Instead of resting, you are consuming content online and disrupting your sleep pattern. This results in sleep deprivation, which can deepen symptoms of depression. Furthermore, blue light emitted by electronic devices disrupts the body’s natural sleep-wake cycle and leads to poor sleep quality and fatigue.
Increased Anxiety and Stress Levels
Doomscrolling creates a cycle of anxiety and stress as people constantly seek out information to alleviate fear. The constant influx of bad news triggers the body’s stress response and releases hormones that contribute to feelings of agitation and unease. Over time, chronic stress leads to the development or exacerbation of depressive symptoms.
How Can I Break the Cycle?
It is hard to break free from the stronghold that doomscrolling has on us; it requires conscious effort and deliberate action. Setting boundaries around social media usage, such as limiting screen time and designating specific times for checking news feeds, can help you regain control over consumption habits. You can also engage in activities that promote relaxation and mindfulness, such as meditation, exercise, or spending time outdoors. This can counteract the negative effects of excessive screen time.
Doomscrolling can offer temporary distraction or information, but its long-term consequences on mental health can be severe. The continuous exposure to negative news, social comparison, and disrupted sleep patterns contribute to feelings of depression and anxiety. By recognizing the harmful impact of excessive social media consumption and implementing strategies to mitigate its effects, you can take steps towards improving your mental well-being and finding balance in this digital age.
If you are feeling like you want to get away from the screen and put some pen to paper, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us here at Letters Against Depression if you haven’t already. We send letters of hope and support to those who need someone there for them. You can request to receive letters here.