In today’s digital age, doomscrolling has become an increasingly common habit. This involves an obsessive, almost compulsive need to scroll through social media and the news, often for long periods of time, in search of the latest updates on a particular topic or issue. While doomscrolling might provide temporary relief from boredom or anxiety, it can also have a negative impact on holistic well-being.

What is Doomscrolling?

Doomscrolling is the act of scrolling through news and social media websites for long periods of time in search of information, often about negative or troubling topics. It can be difficult to distinguish between doomscrolling and simply using the internet to stay informed, but the key difference is that doomscrolling is done obsessively, often resulting in a feeling of anxiety or distress.

Doomscrolling is particularly common in times of political and social unrest. People feel compelled to stay up to date on the latest news, often in an effort to gain a sense of control over the situation. However, this can be detrimental to holistic well-being.

Impact of Doomscrolling on Holistic Well-Being

Holistic well-being refers to physical, mental and emotional health. Doomscrolling can have a negative impact on all of these aspects.

Physical Impact

Physically, doomscrolling can have a detrimental effect. It can cause physical discomfort, such as headaches and eye strain, due to long periods of time spent looking at a screen. It can also lead to fatigue, as doomscrolling can take up a considerable amount of energy.

Mental Impact

Mentally, doomscrolling can be damaging. It can lead to feelings of stress and anxiety as a result of being exposed to negative news and content. It can also lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration, as the situation can seem overwhelming and out of control.

Emotional Impact

Emotionally, doomscrolling can be even more detrimental. It can lead to a sense of hopelessness and despair, as the news can seem unrelentingly negative. It can also lead to a sense of isolation, as people can feel disconnected from the rest of the world.

Breaking the Cycle of Doomscrolling

Given the potential impact of doomscrolling on holistic well-being, it is important to take steps to break the cycle. Here are some tips for doing so.

• First, make sure to take regular breaks from social media and the news. This can help reduce the sense of compulsion and give your mind and body a chance to rest.
• Second, focus on activities that can help improve holistic well-being. This can include exercise, meditation, and spending time in nature.
• Third, practice self-care. This can include setting aside time each day to do something that brings joy, such as reading or listening to music.
• Finally, connect with people in meaningful ways. This can help reduce feelings of isolation and provide much-needed support.

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Doomscrolling can have a significant impact on holistic well-being. It can lead to physical discomfort, mental stress, and emotional despair. However, it is possible to break the cycle of doomscrolling by taking regular breaks, engaging in activities that promote holistic well-being, practicing self-care, and connecting with people. By doing so, it is possible to improve holistic well-being and break the cycle of doomscrolling.