How Doom scrolling Can Trigger Trauma Responses
Many of us have developed a habit known as doom scrolling. It basically means endlessly scrolling through useless content on social media or news sites, often late into the night. Whether it’s content about pandemics, natural disasters, political unrest, or other troubling events, doom scrolling can take a serious toll on our mental health. In fact, it can even trigger trauma responses, making us feel anxious, overwhelmed, and stuck in a negative mental loop.
Lets explore what doom scrolling is, how it affects our brain and emotions, and why it can trigger trauma responses. We’ll also share some important facts and figures and discuss when it might be time to seek help from a psychiatrist or trauma therapist.
What is Doomscrolling?
Doom scrolling is the habit of continuously consuming useless and unrelated content , especially on social media platforms. It’s easy to fall into this trap because our phones and computers make content about news and updates instantly accessible 24/7. The problem is, this constant exposure to distressing information can wear down our mental defenses.
A 2020 study by the University of Michigan found that during the COVID-19 pandemic, doomscrolling increased significantly, leading to higher rates of anxiety and depression among users. People who spent more than two hours a day consuming negative news were 27% more likely to experience symptoms of anxiety.
How Doom scrolling Affects the Brain and Emotions
When we doom scroll, our brain is flooded with negative/positive stimuli rapidly. This continuous exposure activates our fight or flight response, a natural survival mechanism designed to help us react quickly to threats. However, when this response is constantly triggered by updates, our body remains in a state of heightened stress.
Research shows that chronic stress can cause changes in brain areas responsible for emotional regulation, such as the amygdala and hippocampus. This can lead to increased feelings of fear, anxiety, and sadness. Over time, these emotional changes may contribute to trauma responses, especially in individuals who have experienced past trauma or are already vulnerable.
What Are Trauma Responses?
Trauma responses are the ways our body and mind react to experiences that overwhelm our ability to cope. These responses can be triggered not only by direct traumatic events but also by situations that remind us of trauma or cause extreme stress. Common trauma responses include:
Flashbacks or intrusive memories
Feeling numb or detached from reality
Heightened anxiety or panic attacks
Difficulty sleeping or nightmares
Avoidance of certain places or topics
Mood swings or irritability
When doom scrolling exposes us to alarming content constantly, it can stir up these reactions, even if the trauma we experience is indirect.
How Doom scrolling Can Trigger Trauma Responses
Repetitive Exposure to Threatening Information
Doom scrolling bombards the brain with useless stories, causing us to relive fears and anxieties repeatedly. This repetition is similar to how traumatic memories are relived, increasing stress and emotional pain. A 2022 study found that trauma therapy reduces symptoms of PTSD by 40-60%, showing the importance of professional help for trauma-related conditions.Feeling of Lack of Control
Endless negative and unrelated content can create a sense of helplessness. Feeling powerless to change the world or our situation is a common trigger for trauma responses, as it reminds us of past times when we felt unsafe.Disruption of Normal Routine
Many people doomscroll late into the night, disrupting sleep patterns. Lack of sleep worsens mental health and makes it harder to process stress or trauma.Isolation and Loneliness
Although doom scrolling connects us to information, it can make us feel isolated and alone in our fears, which worsens trauma symptoms.
Tips to Break Free from Doom scrolling and Protect Your Mental Health
Set time limits: Use apps or phone settings to limit your daily news and social media usage.
Curate your news sources: Follow reliable and balanced news accounts to avoid sensationalism.
Take breaks: Step away from screens regularly to do relaxing activities like walking, reading, or meditating.
Talk about your feelings: Share your concerns with friends, family, or support groups.
Practice self-care: Prioritize sleep, healthy eating, and exercise to strengthen your resilience.
If doom scrolling is causing you to experience intense feelings of anxiety, panic, or trauma responses that interfere with your daily life, it’s important to seek professional help. Here are some signs that you might benefit from consulting a psychiatrist or trauma therapist:
You have persistent flashbacks or nightmares related to the news you consume.
You feel numb or detached from people and activities you once enjoyed.
Your anxiety or depression symptoms are worsening despite your efforts to cope.
You find it difficult to stop doom scrolling even when it hurts your mental health.
You have trouble sleeping or concentrating for days or weeks.
Psychiatrists can provide medical support, including therapy and medication if needed. Trauma therapists specialize in helping people process and heal from trauma using techniques such as EMDR (Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing), cognitive-behavioral therapy, and mindfulness practices.
Final Thoughts
Doom scrolling might feel like a way to stay informed, but it can lead to serious mental health challenges, including triggering trauma responses. Understanding how it affects your brain and emotions is the first step toward taking control of your mental well-being. If you notice signs of trauma or overwhelming anxiety, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. A psychiatrist or trauma therapist can provide the care and tools you need to heal and regain balance.
Remember, your mental health matters, and it’s okay to step back from the news and focus on healing.