Doomscrolling and its affects on mental health

Team Udayavani, Jun 8, 2021, 12:26 PM IST

Source: Unsplash

Doom surfing or doomscrolling is the excessive use of screen time to scroll through predominantly negative news.

As we all find ourselves at a place where we can’t stop scrolling through various apps, reading about the happenings around the world while we fight the deadly virus, this leads to us inclining towards negative news.

Below are few tips to lessen doomscrolling.

1.  Limit the usage of social media and news apps: Keep a track of the time you spend on your phone and if possible try not to use the phone while you are in bed, in order to avoid scrolling right after waking up in the morning.

2. Keep track of your health, mental and physical: Exercise (even at home) releases neurotransmitters which have a feel-good effect. Yoga and meditation also help in de-stressing.

3. Make room for hobbies: Read more and read positive news too, and share jokes and inculcate other indoor activities in your routine.

4. Eat healthy: Opt for a balanced diet and avoid munching on junk food while using your phone or watching TV.