How To Quit Doomscrolling (Without Ditching Your Phone)

Wired In: If you’ve got a phone, you’re probably doomscrolling at least some of the time. It’s estimated 64% of people doomscroll. Gen Z is doomscrolling the most (81%). Cases of anxiety among Gen Z have nearly tripled from 2019 to 2023, and experts say social media use and, more specifically, doomscrolling play a big part. Doomscrolling moves beyond just wanting to be informed and comes from a natural desire to feel more in control in an unstable world. Even though it often makes us feel bad, doomscrolling can be a hard habit to break. 

How to Do It: Swap passive doomscrolling for more engaged activity, like playing word games or practicing a new language. Doomscrolling can be isolating, so use screen time to foster friendships and engage with a community by joining a hobby-based online group or playing a game with friends. Instead of just consuming content, try using apps to make your own art, music, videos, or writing. How-to videos and teaching apps can help you tackle a new skill you’ve been dying to learn. 

The Benefits: Ditching doomscrolling for more active screen time can improve problem-solving, creativity, and neuroplasticity, while also building confidence and nurturing relationships.