Scrolling endlessly to unwind could make you feel worse
If you want to tune out and relax after a long day, you might turn to social media, online shopping or playing games on your phone. But a new study suggests that these activities might actually stress you out more.
Scrolling aimlessly online for leisure may leave you feeling worse rather than better, according to a new study. Published in the journal PLOS One, the research reveals that individuals who engage in "problematic" internet usage—defined as causing distress or neglecting essential life aspects like relationships or work—tend to experience higher stress levels and lower moods.
These problem users often spend more time online, attempting to boost their mood by visiting social media platforms, online shopping websites, or gaming apps. However, the study suggests that this cycle may reinforce feelings of frustration and dissatisfaction. Andreas Oelker, a psychology PhD student at the University of Duisburg-Essen, explains that "using the internet to lift your mood doesn't help very much."
Instead, it seems to create a vicious circle, leading users to spend even more time online. One key factor is the design of these platforms, which are engineered to capture and maintain user attention. For instance, TikTok's algorithm delivers a continuous stream of personalized videos, enticing users to spend many more hours per day than they intend.
The problem lies not only in the content but also in the contrast between the perceived happiness from watching funny videos and the exposure to stressful news or comparisons with others. The researchers emphasize that the allure of online activities comes from uncertainty, which can be both motivating and discomforting. Whether you win or lose, there's always a new outcome to look forward to, but this unpredictability can also lead to disappointment and further reliance on the internet for emotional relief.
To combat this, the study recommends identifying alternative activities that fill the time once spent online, setting physical distance from devices, and utilizing apps or tools that limit access to certain platforms. Ultimately, while the internet offers a myriad of tempting distractions, finding healthier ways to spend time is crucial for maintaining mental well-being.
Written by urgent.news from IOL's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
