Therapists weigh in on new "bloomscrolling" trend
The new social media trend "bloomscrolling" encourages users to intentionally seek out uplifting and inspiring content online, aiming to counter the effects of constant negative news consumption.
A new social media trend, dubbed "bloomscrolling," is encouraging users to actively seek out positive and inspiring content online. This phenomenon reflects a broader shift away from passively consuming negative news, which has been linked to increased anxiety and depression.
According to experts, "bloomscrolling" is not about ignoring reality or forcing positivity. Instead, it emphasizes making conscious choices about digital content consumption. The goal is for internet use to foster a sense of connection and information, rather than causing overwhelm or depletion.
Sreela Roy-Greene, a licensed therapist at the online platform BetterHelp, notes that a constant stream of stressful or negative content can lead to mental strain. Therefore, seeking content that offers hope, comfort, or inspiration is a natural response. This can provide a momentary emotional reset and interrupt negative cycles.
Roy-Greene compares the balance of media consumption to a healthy diet, emphasizing that constant exposure to certain content can shape thoughts, emotions, and overall well-being. Excessive exposure to distressing news has also been linked to physical health issues like headaches and sleep disturbances.
Online platforms are observing this trend. Sydney Stanback, global trends and insights lead at Pinterest, states that users are becoming more intentional about what they allow into their feeds. Searches related to "offline hobbies" have significantly increased on Pinterest, indicating a desire to balance digital life with physical activities.