Social Media: How to Survive the Scroll
Let’s be honest — social media can kind of be a double-edged sword. On one hand, it’s amazing: hilarious memes, new TikTok dances, friends’ updates, and endless cat videos. On the other hand, it can be exhausting, overwhelming, and honestly, sometimes make you feel like everyone else has their life way more together than you do.
Why it gets stressful
Scrolling for hours might seem harmless, but social media can impact your mood and stress levels in a few ways:
Comparison trap. It’s easy to look at highlight reels and think everyone else is perfect.
Information overload. News, drama, and endless posts can make your brain feel like it’s running a marathon.
Sleep disruption. Late-night scrolling can sneak up on you and wreck your sleep (and yes, your morning mood).
Even though it’s fun, social media isn’t always “free” entertainment — it comes with mental weight.
How to make it work for you
You don’t have to quit social media entirely (unless you want to—no judgment!) A few ways to keep it from taking over:
Set limits. Even 10–15 minute “check-ins” instead of endless scrolling can make a huge difference. Yes, doomscrolling at 2 a.m. counts as cardio for your eyeballs.
Curate your feed. When possible, filter out posts with key-words (that you set) that you know are triggering for you. Follow people who inspire, support, or make you laugh — mute or unfollow those who drain you. Unfollowing your ex or that one influencer who always seems perfect is a form of self-care. Treat it like a spa day for your brain.
Be mindful. Ask yourself: “Am I scrolling to feel connected, or just to pass time and feel worse?” Check in with yourself every so often and ask yourself: “How did that video make me feel?”
Take breaks. Short digital detoxes, or even leaving your phone in another room, can reset your brain.
Final thoughts
Social media can be fun, social, and informative — but it doesn’t have to control how you feel. Being intentional about how and when you use it can help you enjoy the good parts without letting it weigh you down. You get to choose what your scrolling time does for you — not the other way around.
💡 At Morrow Therapeutics, I help people navigate the stress, comparison, and overwhelm that can come with social media. You can build healthier habits, reclaim your peace of mind, and thrive offline and online — and I’m here to guide you through it.