Let's Get Some Context
It’s late, but you’re devouring yet another negative story online rather than sleeping. When you binge on news or social media content about troubling things -- like a tragedy, crisis, or disaster -- it’s called doomscrolling or doomsurfing. Lots of people have done it.
As you might guess, all that bad news can affect your emotions and more. Doomscrolling can send your mind racing and lead to burnout. It can also make you feel uncertain, anxious, or distressed. Research suggests that those feelings can steal your sleep, appetite, motivation, or desire to do things you usually enjoy.
Who’s More Likely to Doomscroll?
- Men are slightly more likely than women to doomscroll.
- Younger adults (Gen Z) are more likely than older adults to do it.
- People who follow or participate in politics are likelier to doomscroll.