Are You Doomscrolling Again?

If you're based in the U.S., you've probably been sucked into hundreds of headlines that scream "impending doom." From current politics to its inevitable trickle effects, "How to Stop Doomscrolling" is now trending on Google with a 250% increase in searches. To keep it short: doomscrolling overwhelms you and you need a break. The constant loop of bad news keeps your nervous system in a panic state and can not only harm your mental health, but make you irritable, too. If this feels like you, keep reading for tips.

It might be time to tap into what I call a "palate cleanser." Think of the show Hot Ones, "the show with hot questions and even hotter wings." You know those clips of celebrities like SZA and Cardi B sipping milk in between insanely hot bites? The milk is their Palate cleanser -- and if you've been doomscrolling, you need one, too.

First, try scheduling screen time -- yes, like you're an iPad baby. Like our parents frequently say, sometimes it is that damn phone that's distracting you. Instead, only scroll through social media and news headlines during a time of day where you also have time to squeeze in a palate cleanser afterward. This requires boundaries and discipline, so be patient with yourself, but also hold yourself accountable!

Next, create a list of your top palate cleansers. This can span from a funny comfort show, like Bob's Burgers or Real Housewives. Alternatively, have a go-to "Feel Good" playlist that gets you dancing versus sulking.

Lastly, its important to "break the cycle" with doomscrolling entirely. As Sherry Benton, Ph.D. told PsychologyToday: "Change what you are reading and watching... Once you start doing this, your news algorithms will change, and you will get more articles about these things and fewer gloom and doom articles."

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