How to stop doomscrolling
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First things first: a definition. Doomscrolling is the act of spending an excessive amount of screen time devoted to the absorption of negative news.
Here at The Know, we’re no stranger to this concept. During particularly heavy news cycles, doomscrolling can become addictive - especially when it can feel like there’s just so much to keep up with.
But how helpful is it really to keep going back to the traumatic stuff? Although we might worry about missing out on some big news, sometimes the healthiest thing to do is to be mindful of the way we consume current affairs and the regularity of it. That way, we can conserve our energy, recharge and better equip ourselves to navigate the challenges ahead.
We know that changing our scrolling habits is easier said than done, so here are some tips to give yourself the best chance of success.
1. Positivity boost
If you find your daily news check is getting you down, make space for positive news, too. It might not seem like it right now, but there are still some lovely things happening in the world (which we highlight in the Cheer Me Up section of our newsletter every morning!).
2. Set a limit
Doomscrolling can become a compulsive habit, so schedule your news time into the day and keep to that limit. For example, let yourself check the news for 15 minutes in the morning and 15 minutes in the late afternoon - and don’t go beyond that. Being informed is great, but letting it take over your life isn’t.
3. Timeline cleanse
Rethink your social media circles. Twitter is great for staying up to date, but a timeline full of news can become overwhelming. Make yourself a private account where you can follow all the wholesome, silly accounts you want and switch to that feed when the serious stuff is getting a bit heavy.
4. Fill the gap
Every time you feel the urge to kill time by scrolling, read a chapter of a book, start a painting, listen to music or complete a small task on a big project. A lot of doomscrolling is rooted in a feeling of helplessness, so make yourself feel useful.
5. Leave it to us
It’s our job to work through the news and bring you a digest that’s both easy to read and informative. It’s what we’re good at, so take comfort in the fact that our short, daily newsletter can keep you up to date and keep you feeling hopeful.