Psychiatrist warns of mental health dangers of ‘doomscrolling’ in the aftermath of the US Presidential Election
Date: 6th November 2024
People must take proactive steps to avoid ‘doomscrolling’ in the wake of the US Presidential Election 2024, with many at risk of experiencing heightened anxiety due to the overconsumption of news and social media, according to a leading mental health expert.
Dr Sheethal Rajashanker, a consultant psychiatrist based at Priory Hospital Cheadle Royal and Priory Wellbeing Centre Manchester, has highlighted the detrimental impact of this behaviour on our mental health.
“Doomscrolling, or the compulsive consumption of any news we perceive to be negative, can exacerbate feelings of anxiety and stress,” says Dr Rajashanker.
“In the current climate, where political outcomes are uncertain and often polarising, it’s crucial for individuals to manage their media consumption to protect their mental well-being.”
Dr Rajashanker outlined several signs that indicate the overconsumption of election-related content may be negatively impacting mental health.
She said: “Increased anxiety or stress, mood swings, sleep disturbances, physical symptoms like headaches or fatigue, avoidance behaviour, social media fatigue, loss of interest in usual activities, compulsive checking of news sites or social media, difficulty concentrating, and a negative impact on relationships are all potential indicators.”
The 2024 U.S. presidential election result is drawing extensive worldwide focus due to a significance of the outcome on global politics and the polarised political landscape.
Dr Rajashanker says overconsumption of news media often stems from a positive inclination to be an informed global citizen, and to maintain a sense of control during uncertain times.
She said: “We can see a combination of psychological and social factors at play. We might start off with a thirst for information, as part of a desire to stay informed of current events. For some, doomscrolling also provides a false sense of control over uncertain situations. For those already experiencing anxiety and stress, doom scrolling can serve as a coping mechanism.
“Yet, as social media algorithms are designed to maximise engagement, this can create a feedback loop where users are continuously exposed to alarming news.
“I’d always advise my patients to try to avoid sensationalised news, polarising content, and unverified information. Instead, try to establish boundaries around news consumption, engage in self-care activities, and seek out positive or constructive content.”
ENDS
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About Priory and MEDIAN Group
Priory is the UK’s largest independent provider of mental health and adult social care services. Priory treats more than 70 conditions, including depression, anxiety, addictions and eating disorders, as well as children’s mental health, across its nationwide network of sites. Priory also supports autistic adults and adults with a learning disability, Prader-Willi Syndrome and brain injuries, as well as older people, within specialist residential care and supported living facilities – helping as many people as possible to live their lives.
Priory is part of the MEDIAN Group, the leading European provider of high-quality mental health and rehabilitation services. The MEDIAN Group comprises: Priory in the UK with 290 facilities and 5,000 beds caring for 28,000 people, MEDIAN in Germany with 120 facilities and 20,000 beds caring for around 250,000 patients, and Hestia in Spain with 15 facilities and 2,100 beds caring for 11,000 people in Spain, with more than 29,000 employees across the group.