Is doomscrolling on social media stealing more than our time?

Introduction

Ever feel like social media takes more than it gives?

In the UK, young adults aged 18–35 years-old spend an average of more than 4.5 hours online via their smartphones every day and are particularly vulnerable to problematic social media use (PSMU). 

What is problematic social media use?

PSMU refers to use that feels excessive and all-consuming and is linked to poorer mental health and social wellbeing. Increasingly, wellbeing is understood as a multidimensional concept ecompassing quality of life (QOL), including physical, psychological, independence-related, social, environmental and spiritual aspects.

This blog summarises qualitative research exploring 10 young adults aged 18-35 years-old who use social media for more than three hours per day and how this impacts their QOL. Using reflexive thematic analysis, five themes were developed.

Theme 1: “Double-edged sword”

The young adults describe social media as both helpful and harmful. They depend on it for connection, information and to “switch off”; however, these benefits come at a cost, which is ultimately perceived to outweigh them.

Theme 2: “I just can’t seem to stop”

Despite wanting to cut down, the young adults described their social media use as habitual, mindless and difficult to control. Many attributed “doom scrolling” to losing track of time and reporting feeling shame and embarrassment about the time spent online. Algorithm-driven content, endless feeds and smartphone access make it harder to withdraw, pulling them in without conscious intention.

Theme 3: “Wasted time”

The young adults perceived their social media use as “wasted time”, displacing more meaningful and valued activities. Many described being mentally absent, even when physically present. As a result, they feel disconnected and as though they are missing out on life itself.

Theme 4: Overwhelming

Constant exposure to information, news and other people’s lives, as well as pressures to keep up-to-date, respond and post content, added to the young adults’ sense of anxiety and overwhelm.

Theme 5: Negative self-comparison and exclusion

Seeing often “polished” versions of other people’s lives left many young adults feeling behind, “less than” and excluded, resulting in a reduced sense of self-worth and increased disconnection.

Why this matters

While young adults may desire a healthy balance of social media use, addictive and environmental factors, such asalgorithm-fed content make this challenging. This research highlights the value of practical strategies and targeting key usage patterns, such as time spent scrolling and reduced presence. The findings also suggest a need for greater awareness within mental health services, as PSMU may contribute to ongoing distress.

Takeaway message

For these young adults, social media represents the “modern way” of living – and is frequently relied upon in everyday life for connection, staying-up-to-date and relief. Yet it also leaves them feeling overwhelmed, disconnected and worse about themselves, reflecting a conflicted relationship. Increasing awareness may facilitate more balanced and intentional use, as well as reducing stigma, especially amongst men and minoritised groups, and encourage people to seek support where needed.