Health · Mental Health · 9 hrs ago
Doomscrolling linked to distress, while neurologist describes ‘helicopter brain’
An analysis of 44 studies found that excessive exposure to negative online content was associated with higher anxiety and psychological distress.
The researchers did not show that doomscrolling caused those problems.
Miami Beach neurologist Steven Resnick uses “helicopter brain” to describe a nervous system that stays on high alert.
He says information overload, overstimulation and uncertainty can contribute, though everyday stress and long-standing habits may also play a role.
People may experience headaches, stomach problems, fatigue, sleep difficulties, tingling or dizziness.
Resnick advises first recognizing and naming feelings, then noticing recurring patterns in thoughts and behavior.
He says feeling heard and safe can help the nervous system begin to calm, but the story gives no further next steps.
An analysis of 44 studies linked excessive consumption of negative online content, or doomscrolling, with higher anxiety and psychological distress.
The analysis, published in Frontiers in Psychology, found associations but did not establish cause and effect.
Neurologist Dr. Steven Resnick uses “helicopter brain” to describe a nervous system that remains constantly on high alert.
Resnick said information overload, overstimulation and uncertainty can contribute to this heightened state.
He described strategies including recognizing feelings and noticing recurring patterns to help develop healthier responses to stress.
- Who
- Researchers analyzed studies on doomscrolling, and neurologist Dr. Steven Resnick described “helicopter brain.
- What
- An analysis linked doomscrolling with anxiety and psychological distress. Resnick said information overload may contribute to a constantly alert nervous system.
- When
- The article was published on 2026-10-12. The analysis date is not stated.
- Where
- The research was published in Frontiers in Psychology. Resnick is based at Mount Sinai Medical Center in Miami Beach, Florida.
- Why
- The analysis examined links between excessive consumption of negative online content and mental health. Resnick said information overload, overstimulation and uncertainty can keep the brain on high alert.
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- Studies analyzed
- 44
- Research publication
- Frontiers in Psychology
- Neurologist
- Dr. Steven Resnick
- Medical center
- Mount Sinai Medical Center, Miami Beach, Florida
- Analysis finding
- Association with higher anxiety and psychological distress; no cause-and-effect relationship established
What people are saying
Your nervous system’s job is to protect you from harm.
The brain is scanning for danger
Mindfulness is not just about meditation; it's about noticing.
Sources
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