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Does this sound like your Sunday night? Tucked up in bed, doom scrolling on social media, consuming memes and reels for hours on end.
This excessive exposure to mindless content has led to the evolution of the phenomenon called brain rot.
JUST ONE MORE MINUTE
Brainrot refers to the deterioration of a person’s cognitive state due to the overconsumption of trivial or unchallenging material.
The phrase was first coined in 1854 by Henry David Thoreau in his book Walden. In the past year, its use has risen by a staggering 230%.
Due to its soaring popularity, brain rot was awarded 2024 Word of the Year by Oxford University Press. And while the expression isn’t new, its modern-day context is.
Caption: Brainrot relates to the deterioration of the brain from consuming mind-numbing online content
Credit: Gilles Lambert via Unsplash
These days, brain rot is associated with low-quality online content often found on social media in the form of short videos or images.
And despite some of the reels and memes providing a good laugh, they could be doing more harm than good.
DECAYING THE BRAIN
Research has found overconsuming mind-numbing content can have a negative impact on cognitive function and mental health.
One study found using the internet can impact a person’s ability to focus and their memory.
Another study found doom scrolling can increase psychological distress and decrease mental wellbeing.
Caption: Research has found doomscrolling can impact mental health
Credit: Adrian Swancar via Unsplash
Research has also determined that social media addiction can cause poor sleep and emotional disturbance, resulting in adverse mental and cognitive function.
In Australia, scientists are undertaking the nation’s largest longitudinal study involving more than 6000 teenagers. They’re investigating the link between screen time and mental health.
Initial results reinforce what we already know – there’s a link between increased screen time and mental ill health.
JUST PUT IT DOWN
To prevent brain rot from creeping in, experts recommend engaging in other activities such as reading, exercising, meditation and socialising.
While it may be unrealistic to remove screen time altogether, reducing the amount of time spent online, switching off notifications or deleting distracting apps can help prevent a late-night digital spiral.
And the easiest option? Simply put down the phone or turn off the TV.
