Doomscrolling Detox: How to Balance Your Social Media Without Losing Your Mind
Ding. Another notification.
Scroll. Another tragic news update.
Click. Another video warning of impending doom.
Sound familiar? If so, you’re not alone. Social media, especially news-heavy content that we’re all so plugged into now, can quickly become overwhelming. With TikTok’s FYP feeding us a never-ending stream of information and Instagram Reels pulling us into an emotional whirlwind (not to mention the plethora of other social media feeds,) it’s easy to feel consumed by the weight of the world.
Yes, we all want to be informed. I too feel it’s important to stay aware of what’s happening around us. But the constant influx of heavy news can trigger stress hormones, elevate anxiety, and leave us feeling helpless.
Maybe it’s time to give yourself a little break.
Find Balance: Staying Informed Without Losing Yourself
If you feel guilty about stepping away from the news, here’s an important truth: it’s just as important to preserve your mental well-being. I suggest creating a little balance in what you consume online.
Curate your social media feeds to include sources that highlight the good in the world. You can still engage with the news, but you should also follow accounts that bring you joy, hope, and lightheartedness. Here are some ideas to make your scrolling experience a little less stressful:
1. Follow Accounts That Share Uplifting News
Did you know there are entire social media accounts dedicated to showcasing the good in the world? Whether it’s people helping people, heartwarming animal rescues, or stories of communities coming together, you can actively choose to include these positive voices in your feed.
Some great accounts to check out are:
@thatgoodnewsgirl (TikTok & Instagram) - Jenn shares good news and fun stories that will brighten anyone’s day.
@goodnews_movement (Instagram) – Good news only! Find stories of neighbors coming together to support one another, kids making each other laugh, and so much more.
@thehappybroadcast (Instagram) – Find brightly illustrated anxiety-free news with positive global impact.
@upworthy (TikTok & Instagram) – A collection of feel-good, inspiring stories about people making a difference.
Social Media Getting You Down? Life Feeling “Too Much”? I’ve Got You Covered.
2. Follow Zoo and Wildlife Accounts for a Daily Dose of Cuteness
Who doesn’t love baby animals? Watching a baby giraffe take its first steps or seeing otters play in the water can be the serotonin boost you didn’t know you needed. Plus, animals have a way of reminding us about the beauty of the natural world and the simple, yet important things.
Some must-follow accounts:
@sandiegozoo (Instagram & TikTok) – The San Diego Zoo shares adorable clips of animal interactions and behind-the-scenes moments with zookeepers.
@natgeo (Instagram) – National Geographic offers stunning wildlife photography and fascinating animal facts.
@charlottewildlifestewards (Instagram) - If you want something a little closer to home, check out Charlotte Wildlife Stewards to see the beauty right in your backyard.
@nczoo (Instagram & Tiktok) - Speaking of what’s right here in North Carolina, check out our zoo’s social media to see the newest cute (and vital) additions.
3. Watch Animal & Nature Cams for a Peaceful Escape
Live animal and nature cams are like a little window into another world—one where there are no breaking news alerts, just eagles nesting, pandas munching on bamboo, or stars glittering in the Arctic sky.
Some calming cams to check out include:
Explore.org – Offers live streams of various animals and landscapes, from bald eagles and elephants to the Aurora Borealis and coral reefs.
Big Bear Bald Eagles – The infamous bald eagle pair who have braved snow, wind, and rain to care for their eggs.
Volcano Cams – Be mesmerized by flowing lava, and steaming craters. Who knows, you might catch a live eruption!
Puppy and Kitty Cams - I couldn’t possibly forget to include a kitty and puppy cam. You’re welcome. ;)
Give Yourself Permission to Take a Break: Therapy in North Carolina and South Carolina
This is your reminder that it’s okay to unplug. It’s okay to take a step back from the heavy side of social media and embrace content that brings you happiness, smiles, and peace. It’s okay to seek out joy, share it with your loved ones, and allow yourself moments of lightness amid the chaos.
The world is a complicated, sometimes difficult place. But there is still so much goodness, beauty, and kindness happening every single day. You deserve to see that, too.
So go ahead—watch the baby elephant play in the mud, follow the eagle cam, and let yourself laugh at a ridiculous dog video. The world will still be there when you return, but you’ll be a little more refreshed, a little more hopeful, and a lot more at peace.
If you need a helping hand to find the glimmers in life, please don’t hesitate to reach out. I offer free 15-minute consultations for all adults in North Carolina and South Carolina and would be honored to help!
I would like to be clear that this blog post is not intended to substitute for professional counseling. If you are in need of support, please consider speaking to a professional counselor.
Cheryl D. Perry MA, LCMHC, LPC, NCC
