For this week’s edition of Food for Thought, we turn our attention to the impact of “Doom Scrolling” or “media overload” on mental health.
Since Covid first took over the headlines in 2020, I have been addressing this very serious issues in almost all my sessions for one reason or another. We need to be aware and intentional of how much time, energy and attention we give to negatively fuelled, toxic information.
Charlotte Huff’s article in the American Psychological Association’s Monitor on Psychology provides valuable insights into this pressing issue.
Media overload is not just about being bombarded with news; it’s about how the relentless stream of often negative information affects our stress levels and well-being. Terms like “doomscrolling” and “headline stress” reflect the anxiety and emotional strain this constant connectivity can induce.
Huff’s article stands out for its practical advice on managing this overload. Strategies include dietary media restriction, such as turning off notifications and setting social media time limits, to mitigate the psychological impact.
For a concise understanding and actionable steps to protect your mental health from the barrage of news, Charlotte Huff’s exploration is a must-read.
Discover the full story and solutions at: https://www.apa.org/monitor/2022/11/strain-media-overload