Archive · 12 Dec 2025
Obama Avoids Cable News for Mental Health
Barack Obama, the former US President, has not watched cable news for 15 years.
He prefers reading newspapers and publications like the Wall Street Journal, New York Times, and The Atlantic.
Dr. Rimpa Sarkar, a clinical psychologist, explains that watching news can be more emotionally intense than reading it.
Visuals and dramatic music in news can increase anxiety and stress.
Obama's approach helps him stay calm and informed without the negative effects of constant news exposure.
Experts suggest setting time limits, choosing calm news sources, and avoiding late-night news to maintain mental health.
Barack Obama has not watched cable news in 15 years.
He reads a mix of newspapers and publications for information.
Watching news can be more emotionally intense than reading, according to Dr. Rimpa Sarkar.
Visual news can increase anxiety and stress levels.
Experts recommend setting time limits and choosing calm news sources for better mental health.
- Who
- Barack Obama, former US President
- What
- Avoids cable news for mental health benefits
- When
- Has not watched cable news for 15 years
- Where
- Interview at Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art, Bentonville
- Why
- To maintain a calm and regulated nervous system
- Person
- Barack Obama
- Occupation
- Former US President
- News Consumption
- Reads newspapers and publications
- Avoids
- Cable news and social media scrolling
- Duration
- 15 years
- Expert
- Dr. Rimpa Sarkar, Clinical Psychologist
- Impact of Visual News
- Increases anxiety and emotional distress
- Healthier Habits
- Set time limits, choose calm sources, avoid late-night news