FridayOL

Is Doomscrolling Stealing Your Joy & Success? 5 Ways to Break the Cycle

We've all been there. Late at night, you tell yourself you'll just check the news for a few minutes. But before you know it, you're lost in a vortex of negativity, scrolling endlessly through depressing headlines and social media updates. This is doomscrolling – a habit that's become increasingly common, especially in recent years. While it might feel like a way to stay informed or feel connected, experts warn that doomscrolling can seriously impact your mental health and even derail your career aspirations.

What is Doomscrolling & Why Do We Do It?

Doomscrolling is the act of compulsively scrolling through bad news, even though it's making you feel anxious or depressed. It’s more than just casual browsing; it's a deep dive into negativity. The reasons behind this behavior are complex. Some psychologists believe it’s a form of anxiety management – a misguided attempt to feel prepared for the worst. Others suggest it stems from a need for control, a desire to understand and make sense of unsettling events. Still others find it a form of escapism, even though it’s ironically counterproductive.

The Mental Health Toll of Doomscrolling

The consequences of constant exposure to negative news are significant. Doomscrolling can lead to:

• Increased Anxiety & Stress: The constant stream of bad news triggers your body's stress response, leading to feelings of anxiety, worry, and overwhelm.
• Depression & Sadness: Focusing solely on negativity can distort your perception of the world, leading to feelings of hopelessness and despair.
• Sleep Disturbances: The anxiety and stress associated with doomscrolling can interfere with your sleep, leaving you feeling tired and drained.
• Emotional Exhaustion: Constantly processing negative information can deplete your emotional reserves, making it difficult to cope with daily challenges.

How Doomscrolling Impacts Your Career

It's not just your mental well-being that suffers. Doomscrolling can also hinder your career progress. Here's how:

• Reduced Productivity: Anxiety and fatigue make it difficult to focus and be productive at work.
• Decreased Creativity: Negative emotions stifle creativity and innovation.
• Impaired Decision-Making: Stress and overwhelm can cloud your judgment and lead to poor decisions.
• Burnout: The combination of mental and emotional exhaustion can lead to burnout, making it difficult to perform your job effectively.

5 Steps to Break Free from the Doomscrolling Cycle

1. Set Time Limits: Allocate specific times for news consumption and stick to them. Use apps or browser extensions to track and limit your time online.
2. Curate Your Feed: Unfollow accounts that consistently share negative content. Focus on accounts that offer positive, uplifting, or informative content.
3. Practice Mindfulness: Be aware of your urge to scroll. When you feel the pull, take a deep breath and ask yourself if it’s truly serving you.
4. Engage in Offline Activities: Reconnect with hobbies, spend time with loved ones, and engage in activities that bring you joy.
5. Seek Professional Help: If doomscrolling is significantly impacting your mental health or career, consider seeking help from a therapist or counselor.

Breaking the doomscrolling habit takes effort, but it's an investment in your mental health and future success. Take control of your online consumption and reclaim your joy and potential.