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When people are concerned about a current event or seeking a better understanding of something that’s happened in the news, it’s natural to turn to social media for continuously updated information. However, spending too much time scrolling through social media feeds and absorbing a seemingly never-ending stream of negative news can have a significantly negative impact on mental health. The phenomenon, known as “doomscrolling,” can be particularly insidious during an election year when things happen quickly and the stakes seem high.

Excessive consumption of distressing information online has been linked to heightened anxiety and depression. Fortunately, there are effective strategies to help individuals overcome this habit and improve their mental well-being. Columbia Associates offers comprehensive mental health services, including depression treatment, to help individuals navigate these challenges. Call 703.682.8208 today to find out more about our services.

Social Media Habits and Doomscrolling in an Election Year

Sometimes, people can understand that a habit isn’t great for their mental health, but the compulsion to engage in the habit is just too strong to resist. That’s often the case with social media since it’s designed to keep you engaged. Once your feed receives enough information from you about the type of content you’re interacting with, it will send you more of it. Your emotions can then become charged, and any irritated feelings you had to begin with are exacerbated. This habit can be especially detrimental during an election year when feelings are heightened, and emotions are on edge as you seek up-to-date information about the candidates and political movements.

The Connection Between Social Media and Depression

The barrage of negative information during an election year, where both sides of the aisle are targeting voters and running paid ad campaigns, can lead to “information overload.” The brain tries and fails to process large amounts of distressing news in a very short time period, and for individuals experiencing symptoms of depression, doomscrolling may exacerbate those feelings. Here are a few things you can do to help mitigate the risk involved in social media and depression:

Practical Tips to Avoid Doomscrolling

• Limit your time – Set a specific time of day (and amount of time) for checking social media and stick to it. There are helpful apps that track and limit your screen time in order to help manage this habit.
• Curate your feed – Follow accounts that promote positivity, inspiration, and reliable news sources. Unfollow or mute accounts that contribute to negativity.
• Digital detox – Schedule regular breaks from social media and engage in activities that promote better mental health instead, like mindfulness, meditation, reading, or outdoor exercise.
• Alternative activities – Replace doomscrolling with hobbies that bring joy and relaxation. Whether it’s painting, gardening, or listening to music, find activities that elevate your mood.
• Face-to-face conversation – People are less likely to say some of the offensive things they say online once you’re face to face with them. Practice having polite political discourse in person.

The value of human connection, especially during politically charged times can not be oversold. Do your best to have humble conversations with people who you know will respect your opinions even if they disagree. In the long run, this can be far more effective than engaging in the election process online.

How Columbia Associates Can Help with Social Media and Depression

If you find yourself doomscrolling as the election looms close and believe that it’s starting to impact your mental health, Columbia Associates is here to support you. Our team of experienced therapists and psychiatric professionals offers a wide range of services for your mental health. From therapy and psychiatry to treatments like transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) and Spravato®, we’re committed to offering you the best service there is to help you manage depression. We also offer telehealth options to make accessing support comfortable and more convenient.

Call Columbia Associates Today for Mental Health Support and Treatment

Election year or not, doomscrolling and social media use can be an opportunity for symptoms of depression to develop. Understanding its impact and implementing practical strategies to reduce it can help you regain control over your life. Remember, if you’re experiencing depression or anxiety, Columbia Associates is ready to offer expert care and support. Call 703.682.8208 today to speak with a member of our team.

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