Social media addiction is a real thing. Like any college student out there, I find myself doomscrolling with my laptop open right in front of me, feeling the glare of my assignments daring me to start them. I can start to do something productive, but the temptation to reach for my phone wins me over almost every time. It can be viewed as a silly thing, but in the long run, it can have serious effects on your mental health and well-being. Psychologist Dr. Craig N. Sawchuk walks us through some of the effects of doomscrolling in Alisa Bowman’s article, “Doomscrolling: Stop the scrolling, protect your mental health,” which include sleep procrastination, worsened social health, less exercise, emotional distress, and much more. I know putting a stop to doomscrolling can be challenging, but finding new hobbies or rediscovering old ones can help you fight the urge to pick up your phone.
- . Crocheting
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Learning how to crochet has been something that I’ve seen on so many bucket lists, including mine, of course! Just to start, you can easily get a kit for beginners from your local Target and crochet away. This, plus some relaxing music, could keep your mind occupied and off your phone and social media. At the end of the day, you’ll have a creation of your own and be a step away from doomscrolling. You can even start a business with crocheting!
- . Try out a new cooking recipe
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I know everyone has one recipe that they have wanted to try out someday (either cooking or baking!). Maybe you saved that video on TikTok, or it’s in your liked posts on Instagram. This is your sign to give it a try. Even if you aren’t the best cook or have never cooked before, it doesn’t hurt to try something new that can become a family favorite (easy recipe down below if you need an idea!).
- . Organize your closet
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“My life was a mess but I can still clean my room.” Lara Jean Covey is right! Cleaning out your closet or room can lift a significant weight off your shoulders. It’s also very entertaining to do, at least for me. I always find clothes or things I’ve been looking for (or things I forgot I had!), and it makes me feel better afterward to know my stuff is organized. It can take up good hours spent away from your phone.
- . Yoga/Pilates
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Get up and move your body! Yoga and pilates can be so rewarding, trust me! Pilates can be tough in the beginning, but afterward, it feels so rewarding! It keeps your mind off your phone and keeps you active. If you are more on the slower-pace side, yoga can be the way to go. It helps you keep your mind focused and de-stresses you (which can happen a lot when you are on your phone!).
- . Read a book/watch a film
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As simple as this idea may be, it can be hard when your attention span has been reduced to the length of a 10 second TikTok video. There are so many amazing movies and books out there that are waiting to be discovered or rediscovered. Things such as writing and film are almost becoming a dying art now; people don’t want to go to the movies anymore or read outside of their academics. Please give it a try! Movies and books are so fun. :)
Give your brain a break during this semester/quarter and reduce your screen time! Not only does it keep your body and mind active, but it will also benefit your mental health and improve your mood throughout the day!