most. There is plenty of bad news to go around, so the more you scroll, the more you get. For some, doomscrolling becomes


hard to control, and they spend hours compulsively searching for dangers in the news. Studies show that the mental health eff ects from doomscrolling last long after you stop scrolling.


AFFECT ON MENTAL HEALTH Searching for danger, for self- preservation, is hardwired into a primitive part of our brain called the amygdala. Early humans who were not


vigilant did not last long. Sensing danger and fear triggers


our fi ght-or-fl ight response, releasing the stress hormone cortisol. The fi ght-or-fl ight response increases your energy, heart rate, and blood pressure. That can be good if you are dealing


with a short-term threat, but not good when dealing with chronic stress. Long-term stress can damage


your heart and blood vessels, leading to hypertension. “Doomscrolling overwhelms the


brain’s ability to cope and process stress. Overload pushes vigilance into hypervigilance and a vicious spiral,” explains Cavera. Studies have found a link


between high blood pressure and doomscrolling. Bad news can also be addictive


because it triggers the release of the addictive brain chemical dopamine.


need to ask yourself if you are getting any benefit from scrolling. Tips include: Don’t leave your phone by


your bed or at the dinner table Turn off phone notifications Limit screen time with a timer


or app Make more time for exercise and social activities Focus more on local news “It’s important to


recognize that symptoms of


Doomscrolling overwhelms the brain’s ability to cope and process stress. Overload pushes vigilance into hypervigilance and a vicious spiral.” — Robert Cavera, Psy.D.


Studies show that everyone is at


risk, but women and people who have experienced trauma are at the highest risk. Overwhelming bad news can be a type of brain trauma, like post- traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). “Women are at higher risk because


the worst news usually stresses the plight of mothers and children. People with OCD, PTSD, depression, or anxiety are at high risk. “Those I worry about the most are adolescents and young adults who have only known the world through the internet and social media. They may only see the world as dangerous and divisive,” warns Cavera.


STUDY DETAILS Even though doomscrolling is a recent phenomenon, several studies already show an association between doomscrolling and the worsening of quality of life. A 2023 study


doomscrolling can be long- lasting. If you are struggling to reduce your screen time or struggling with negative emotions, you should talk to your primary care provider and consider mental health counseling,” advises Cavera. Although there are no


guidelines for the treatment of doomscrolling, studies suggest that cognitive behavioral therapy may be successful.


NOVEMBER 2025 | NEWSMAX MAXLIFE 99


of 1,200 adults, published in Applied Research in Quality of Life, found that doomscrolling was associated with decreased mental well-being and life satisfaction. A 2024 study of university students


published in Computers in Human Behavior Reports linked doomscrolling to feelings of panic, anxiety, and dread. Students also felt more suspicious and distrustful of others. A 2025 study of 443 young


adults ages 23-49 published in Personality and Individual Diff erences found that people who tend to be anxious were more likely to doomscroll and that this behavior becomes compulsive and exacerbates anxiety.


SEVENTYFOUR©ISTOCK


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