Doomscrolling and Depression During the Pandemic

By Steve

Doomscrolling during the pandemic

It’s October 2023, and the pandemic might feel like a distant memory for some, but for many of us, the mental scars are still fresh. I’m Steve, a 41-year-old Irishman, and like a lot of you, I spent far too much time doomscrolling during lockdowns. You know the drill—endlessly refreshing news feeds, reading about case numbers, and spiralling into anxiety. It’s no wonder my mental health took a nosedive.

The Doomscrolling Trap

Doomscrolling is like a bad pint of Guinness—it looks appealing at first, but it leaves you feeling worse than when you started. During the pandemic, I found myself glued to my phone, obsessing over every update. Jenny, my wife, would catch me at it and say, ‘Steve, put the phone down, you’re only making yourself miserable.’ She was right, of course, but breaking the habit was easier said than done.

It wasn’t just me. A study from Trinity College Dublin found that doomscrolling became a coping mechanism for many during the pandemic. But instead of helping, it fuelled anxiety and depression. Sound familiar?

Here’s the thing: doomscrolling doesn’t just waste time—it messes with your brain. The constant barrage of bad news triggers stress hormones like cortisol, which can tank your mood and energy levels. For someone like me, who’s on TRT (125mg Sustanon weekly plus HCG), managing stress is crucial. High cortisol levels can interfere with testosterone production, leaving you feeling even worse.

I remember one particularly bad day during lockdown. I’d been scrolling for hours, reading about hospital overcrowding and vaccine shortages. By the time I put the phone down, I felt like I’d been hit by a bus. My anxiety was through the roof, and my motivation was in the gutter. It was a wake-up call.

Breaking the Cycle

So, how do you break free from doomscrolling? Here are a few tips that worked for me:

  1. Set Time Limits: I started using my phone’s screen time feature to limit how long I could spend on news apps. It’s amazing how much time you can free up when you’re not glued to your screen.

  2. Focus on the Positive: Instead of doomscrolling, I made a conscious effort to seek out good news. Whether it was stories of community support or funny memes, it helped balance out the negativity.

  3. Get Moving: Exercise is a game-changer for mental health. Even a short walk around the block can help clear your head. Plus, it’s great for testosterone levels!

  4. Talk It Out: Sometimes, you just need to vent. Whether it’s with Jenny, my mates, or my therapist, talking about what’s bothering me always helps.

The Role of TRT in Mental Health

As someone on TRT, I’ve noticed how much better I feel when my hormones are balanced. Low testosterone can exacerbate anxiety and depression, so it’s important to stay on top of your levels. If you’re struggling, it might be worth getting your testosterone checked.

Final Thoughts

Doomscrolling is a tough habit to break, but it’s worth it. Your mental health is too important to sacrifice to the endless scroll. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, don’t be afraid to reach out for help. And remember, you’re not alone in this.

Now, if you’ll excuse me, I’m off to watch the rugby. Ireland’s got a big match coming up, and I’d rather cheer on the boys than doomscroll. Sláinte!