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Nowadays, waking up and checking your phone has become as common as brushing your teeth. But did you know that this habit can be more harmful than you think? Here’s why we should think twice before unlocking our phones upon opening our eyes.
Let's talk about a curious and somewhat scary term: doomscrolling. Does it ring a bell? This phenomenon describes the act of endlessly scrolling through social media and news, often with negative content.
According to neuroscientist Emily McDonald, it's like a slot machine. Each update gives us a dose of dopamine, that substance that makes us feel good, and leaves us wanting more. It's like eating one cookie, then another, and another. Who hasn’t been there?
Studies don't lie. In the last two decades, our ability to concentrate has dropped from 12 to 8 seconds. Yes, you read that right. 8 seconds! Can we blame doomscrolling for this? Definitely, in part.
The effect on our attention: from 12 to 8 seconds
Studies don't lie. In the last two decades, our ability to concentrate has dropped from 12 to 8 seconds. Yes, you read that right. 8 seconds! Can we blame doomscrolling for this? Definitely, in part.
Our minds have become accustomed to constantly seeking the new, the shiny, the immediate. Have you ever found yourself staring at your phone without knowing exactly why? You're not alone.
9 keys to having restorative sleep
Technology bombards us with constant information, and often, it is not exactly cheerful. Fatmata Kamara, a mental health specialist, points out that negative news increases our cortisol levels, the stress hormone.
The emotional impact: more than just a distraction
Technology bombards us with constant information, and often, it is not exactly cheerful. Fatmata Kamara, a mental health specialist, points out that negative news increases our cortisol levels, the stress hormone.
This can lead to mood swings, anxiety, or even depression. Who needs coffee when your body is already in maximum alert mode?
Now, don't worry, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Experts suggest some tactics to avoid falling into this morning trap. Try not to check your phone immediately after waking up. Disable those notifications that tempt you to open apps thoughtlessly. And, if you can, dedicate those first moments of the day to something that truly makes you feel good, like stretching or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee. Are you up for trying it?
Don't forget that your brain is a wonderful organ and deserves a little rest from time to time. So the next time your phone calls you upon waking, think twice. Your mind will thank you.
Tips to Break the Cycle
Now, don't worry, there is light at the end of the tunnel. Experts suggest some tactics to avoid falling into this morning trap. Try not to check your phone immediately after waking up. Disable those notifications that tempt you to open apps thoughtlessly. And, if you can, dedicate those first moments of the day to something that truly makes you feel good, like stretching or enjoying a quiet cup of coffee. Are you up for trying it?
Don't forget that your brain is a wonderful organ and deserves a little rest from time to time. So the next time your phone calls you upon waking, think twice. Your mind will thank you.
