In an era dominated by digital devices and endless streams of online content, the term “brain rot” has emerged to describe the potential cognitive decline associated with excessive internet consumption.
Popularized as Oxford’s Word of the Year in 2024, “brain rot” refers to the mental fatigue and reduced cognitive function that may result from spending too much time engaging with unchallenging or trivial content online (Small, 2025).
While not a formal medical diagnosis, understanding the concept of brain rot is crucial for maintaining mental well-being in the digital age.
MIND YOUR MIND THROUGH JOURNALING.
Who is at Risk?
Anyone with access to the internet can experience brain rot, regardless of age.
The term itself isn’t new; Henry David Thoreau used “brain rot” in 1854 to describe the preference for simpler ideas over complex ones.
Today, with billions of people on social media, particularly teenage girls who spend nearly three hours a day on these platforms, the risk of dulling brain function through passive consumption is significant (Small, 2025).
Examples of Activities That May Cause Brain Rot
- Binge-watching YouTube videos
- Excessively scrolling through social media feeds
- Surfing the internet while multitasking (texting, checking emails)
- Playing video games for extended periods
- Doomscrolling (obsessively checking news feeds, even if disturbing)
READ: Gadget Addiction in the Digital Age — Are We Hooked?
Effects of Brain Rot
While moderate screen time is generally considered harmless, excessive engagement may lead to several cognitive issues:
- Shorter Attention Span: Exposure to bite-sized content can make it harder to focus on complex tasks (Schacter, 2025).
- Memory Problems: Constant distractions and low-value content can diminish the ability to remember important information.
- Problems with Problem-Solving: Excessive screen time may thin the cerebral cortex, affecting memory, decision-making, and problem-solving abilities (Small, 2025).
- Anxiety: Doomscrolling and chronic stress from overstimulation can elevate anxiety levels.
Preventing Brain Rot
Fortunately, brain rot is not a permanent condition. Here are several strategies to prevent or reverse its effects:
1) Set Screen Time Limits: Establish and adhere to daily limits for social media and other online activities. Apps like FocusMe can help enforce these limits.
2) Practice Mindfulness: Engage in mindfulness exercises to retrain your brain to focus, such as deep breathing exercises or using mindfulness apps like Calm.
3) Stay Physically Active: Exercise boosts blood flow to the brain, enhancing neuroplasticity and improving concentration.
4) Read Regularly: Reading newspapers, articles, or books encourages a longer attention span and strengthens cognitive functions.
5) Limit Multitasking: Avoid switching rapidly between tasks to reduce strain on your brain.
6) Stay Social: Interact with family and friends in person to stimulate cognitive functions through body language and social cues.
7) Get Outdoors: Spending time outside can lower stress levels, improve mood, and enhance focus.
8) Digital Detox: Consider taking regular breaks from technology to improve mental well-being.
READ: Digital Stress Fuels Teen Anxiety as Social Media Soars
“Brain rot” is a term that highlights the potential risks of excessive engagement with low-quality online content.
By understanding these risks and implementing strategies to balance digital consumption with mindful and enriching activities, individuals can protect their cognitive health and maintain overall well-being.
Sources:
- What Is Brain Rot?, Web MD (June 26, 2025)
- Demystifying the New Dilemma of Brain Rot in the Digital Era: A Review, PubMed Central (March 7, 2025)
Photo by Dipqi Ghozali on Unsplash
DISCLAIMER
This article provides general information and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized recommendations. If symptoms persist, consult your doctor.
