In the Lithuanian context, this phenomenon is no exception. People frequently turn to social networks and news portals to stay updated on geopolitical threats, the economic situation, or social issues. Unfortunately, media platforms often prioritize sensational and emotionally charged content, which encourages prolonged engagement in these information streams.
Beyond its emotional repercussions, doomscrolling also increases the risk of exposure to fake news and misinformation. Social media and news platforms rely on algorithms that analyze user behavior to deliver tailored content, designed to maximize user engagement. These algorithms often promote content that triggers strong emotions, creating an ‘information bubble.’ Inside this bubble, users are exposed primarily to sensationalized or negative content, which limits access to balanced information and increases susceptibility to misinformation.
Social media algorithms monitor how users interact with content - what they read, like, or comment. Using this data, the algorithms select content they believe will most interest the user. However, they do not consider the user's emotional or psychological state, often suggesting material that triggers anxiety or other negative feelings. For example, if a person frequently watches negative news about economic crises, the algorithms may start to show more content related to the crisis, even if it lacks factual accuracy or objectivity.
To explore the emotional impact of doomscrolling, we spoke with psychologist-psychotherapist Erikas Siudikas. He shares tips on avoiding the pitfalls of doomscrolling and maintaining emotional balance.
Erikas, have you noticed a trend in Lithuania where people are becoming more emotionally sensitive due to excessive consumption of negative online content? What strategies can they use to protect themselves?
In my view, doomscrolling often stems from an inner sense of emptiness. When life lacks a clear purpose or direction, our energy is easily absorbed by the constant flow of information, as if we are searching for answers within the news. However, this habit only intensifies anxiety and generates even more questions.
I have observed this trend in Lithuania as well. Many of my clients report feelings of fatigue, anxiety, and helplessness, often linked to the relentless stream of negative news. Doomscrolling frequently becomes an automatic habit - a way to fill an emotional void or avoid confronting uncomfortable feelings.
To break the vicious cycle of doomscrolling, it is essential to recognize the habit and start acting more consciously. The first step is learning to notice what we feel. When we catch ourselves reading the news without a clear purpose, it is worth pausing for a moment and asking: ‘What am I feeling right now?’ This often reveals that browsing is just a way of avoiding feelings of tiredness, anxiety, or confusion.
Secondly, it is important to focus on meaningful activities that bring purpose to our daily lives. Take a moment to reflect on what truly matters - what people and activities bring you joy and satisfaction. This allows us to focus our energy on what nourishes us from within and makes us feel more grounded.
Another useful step is to limit the time spent on news. Setting specific limits, such as 20 minutes per day, can be helpful. This approach shows that consuming less information reduces stress and enables us to better manage our emotions.
It is also important to create space for yourself by reconnecting with who you are. Sometimes, doomscrolling signals that we have lost this connection. Turning off screens and allowing ourselves time in silence, nature, or through breathing exercises can help calm us and restore our inner balance. At the same time, it is important to make conscious choices about the sources of information we allow into our space. Not everything we read is equally important or useful.
When people learn to recognize these signals and focus their energy on what truly matters, they begin to notice how spending less time on the news creates more space for meaningful, real-life relationships and activities that bring purpose to their lives.
Background illustration: Galih Yoga
This article was published in partnership with Civic Resilience Initiative
