We know that doomscrolling is bad for us, but a new study reveals just how bad it is for us. Turns out all that constant exposure to negative news can actually damage the brain. Doomscrolling increases activity in the amygdala, a the region in the brain that responds to threats. This triggers the release of stress hormones, which can affect your ability to focus, solve problems, and make decisions. When you’re always stressed, it becomes a cycle of anxiety that’s hard to break. The problem is that people often try to cope by looking for more information, but this can just make them more anxious and more likely to believe negative content and conspiracy theories. So as much as you want to reach for your phone when you are stressed, maybe try some other coping mechanisms – like meditation, creative hobbies, taking a walk, or connecting with friends and family,