Avoiding the addictive doom scrolling

Avoid checking your phone at least 45 minutes before you sleep

New Delhi: Today, when we are glued to our cellphones, a common response to unpleasant news is to go online and read more and more information about it — a phenomenon so prevalent that it’s now referred to as ‘doom scrolling’. While this phenomenon existed before as well, nowhere has it been seen more prominently than with the pandemic. Here are a few things to keep in mind that can help:

Information consumption

---

Take a few days to reflect on the amount of time you are spending consuming information, as well as the extent to which it is repetitive.

Media literate

Become cognizant of the manner in which technology is designed to capture our attention so that you’re able to retain your power of choice.

Verified sources

To minimise doom scrolling, stick to a few news channels, papers, or websites that you trust.

Alternate ways

Consider using other strategies when experiencing distress — it could be speaking to someone, or actively disengaged from that situation by involving yourself in another activity.

Minimise screen time

Pick a video or telephone call with a loved one over texting or liking their posts on social media. Also, avoid checking your phone at least 45 minutes before you sleep as well as the first thing in the morning.

Spread positivity online

When sharing a post, reflect on its validity, as well as the impact that it may have on the receiver. Think about whether it will spread positivity or add more distress to the reader. When it comes to social media, we are all creators of information — let’s be responsible and conscientious in the content we create and spread.