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Whenever we open Instagram or any social media app these days, we are greeted by a fast, bright and ever-changing world of Reels. Within a few minutes, hundreds of videos like comedy, motivation, news, fashion, food, drama all enter the mind simultaneously. This habit gradually becomes such that the hand automatically starts scrolling the phone, and we are not able to even guess the time. This behavior is called Doom Scrolling, a cycle in which we are unable to stop ourselves, no matter how tired our brain is.

Most people think of it as just passing the time, but neuroscience shows that watching fast reels continuously has a profound effect on the brain’s focus, memory, decision making and emotional balance. The good thing is that the brain is extremely adaptable. By changing some smart habits, the mind can regain its pace and peace. But this doesn’t mean dropping the reels, just setting their limit.

What is Doom Scrolling and why is it on the rise?

When our brain starts demanding new and faster content while scrolling reels or short videos, it turns into doom scrolling. This behavior has increased because social media platforms are designed to keep us on screens for long periods of time. The algorithms of these platforms show us exactly what we can click on based on our preferences, interests and past scrolling patterns. This is why we come to watch a video, and after fifty videos we realize, how did so much time pass? Doom scrolling has become a kind of digital addiction, in which the brain gets used to the constant novelty, rapid change and micro-dopamine. In the long run it changes our brain’s ability to focus, patience and think.

How do fast video formats reduce our ability to focus?

Scientists show that short, snappy videos like Reels release dopamine in the brain, the same chemical that makes us feel happy and excited. But the constantly changing style of the reels puts the brain in high speed mode. When this happens for a long time, three major changes occur at the processing level of the brain.

1. to be less

Earlier people used to watch 2-3 minute videos comfortably. Today I start feeling bored even in 10 seconds. This happens because the brain has become accustomed to rapid changes.

2. The ability to think deeply is affected

After watching the reels, when one sits down to read a book or study, the mind does not remain stable. He wants the same rapid change again.

3. The brain’s rewards change
Due to the habit of micro boost of dopamine, the brain starts feeling less excited in real life situations. This also reduces motivation.
The smaller, faster and more colorful the reels are, the quicker the brain becomes addicted to them.

Doom scrolling effect

effect on sleep

Watching reels before sleeping makes the brain hyperactive. There is delay in falling asleep, light sleep and fatigue in the morning.

mood swings increase

Watching too much content overloads the brain. Irritability, restlessness and stress over small things increase.

impact on work and studies

Many people take a break of 10 minutes and sit to watch the reels, then 40–50 minutes pass. Delay in work, lack of attention and efficiency decreases.

distance in relationships
Parents, partner, children may be in front, but attention on phone has become an everyday problem. Gradually conversation reduces in relationships. Doom scrolling is a digital habit, but its impact is very human and real.