Experts are raising concerns that this habit may do more than cause temporary fatigue, with evidence suggesting it could have lasting effects on the brain. Dr Manan Vora, a Mumbai-based orthopaedic surgeon, health educator and co-founder of NutriByte Wellness, explained the effects in an Instagram video shared on January 29.
Dr Vora warns that extended periods of mindless scrolling can dampen brain activity, reduce grey matter and affect areas responsible for memory, focus and decision-making. He said, “Brain rot is not just a meme; it is real and it can shrink your brain. New studies have shown that just two plus hours of mindless scrolling daily will reduce your brain's gray matter. This happens in the parts of the brain responsible for memory, focus, and decision-making. It is like your brain is slowly switching off.” According to him, this cognitive underuse can weaken concentration, information retention and judgment over time.
“Brain rot” was Oxford’s word of the year in 2024 and has become a popular way to describe the numb, foggy feeling after prolonged scrolling on social media.
The next time a foggy, “brain-dead” feeling sets in after hours of scrolling, it may be a cue to step away and engage in activities that provide a sense of achievement, rather than seeking more digital stimulation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. ET.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
Dr Vora warns that extended periods of mindless scrolling can dampen brain activity, reduce grey matter and affect areas responsible for memory, focus and decision-making. He said, “Brain rot is not just a meme; it is real and it can shrink your brain. New studies have shown that just two plus hours of mindless scrolling daily will reduce your brain's gray matter. This happens in the parts of the brain responsible for memory, focus, and decision-making. It is like your brain is slowly switching off.” According to him, this cognitive underuse can weaken concentration, information retention and judgment over time.
Effects on the brain
Prolonged, low-effort stimulation from social media may actively harm the brain. The dulling of brain activity over time can leave individuals feeling drained, unfocused and less capable of engaging in meaningful mental tasks.“Brain rot” was Oxford’s word of the year in 2024 and has become a popular way to describe the numb, foggy feeling after prolonged scrolling on social media.
How to counter brain rot
Dr Vora advises replacing mindless scrolling with purposeful activities that stimulate the brain in healthier ways. “You do not need a fancy detox; your brain just wants ‘real life’ back. So, here is a reminder for you to actually go outside, move your body, cycle, swim, go for a run, or even go out and actually meet your friends. Your brain does not want stimulation; it craves accomplishment,” he said. Simple actions like exercising, completing tasks, or engaging in real-world social interactions can help restore mental clarity and prevent cognitive decline.The next time a foggy, “brain-dead” feeling sets in after hours of scrolling, it may be a cue to step away and engage in activities that provide a sense of achievement, rather than seeking more digital stimulation.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. It is based on user-generated content from social media. ET.com has not independently verified the claims and does not endorse them.
