Oxford hailed “brain rot” as 2024’s Word of the Year, which is defined as “the supposed deterioration of a person’s mental or intellectual state, especially viewed as the result of overconsumption of material (now particularly online content) considered to be trivial or unchallenging.” Given the continuous growth of internet and social network users, it’s no surprise that most are already familiar with the term.
Consumption of low-quality content could affect not only an individual’s thinking capabilities but also their overall performance at work or in school. Studies have proved that excessive usage of social media can cause deterioration in cognitive performance. It can lead to poor memory and concentration. According to DataReportal, there’s an annual growth of 5.2% in social media users. This can also mean that more people may experience brain rot as they spend more time aimlessly browsing through social media.
Limit social media use
Restraining social media use will potentially limit the consumption of unverified information and lead to brain rot. Trying digital detox may be worth it as it can divert our attention from digital space back into reality. Smartphones nowadays also come with options for limiting screen time on certain apps. Setting a limit for social media usage per day can help individuals monitor and better manage their gadget time. It will pave the way for more quality time with peers and family as well.
Do own research
Fact-check everything you read online, especially when it concerns topics like politics, money, and health. With the accessibility of the internet and smartphones, it’s easy to spread fake news all over our social media feeds. Diverting attention to more educational and thought-provoking content can also help prevent brain rot.
Find other hobbies
Most people tend to spend a lot of time doomscrolling due to boredom and lack of activity to be done. Finding hobbies that can occupy our time and where we can allot our energy instead will help limit screen time. Reading books and doing other intellectually stimulating activities like puzzle-solving can also challenge the brain and improve mental skills.
Socialize in real life
While social media and text messages helped people keep in touch with their loved ones even across continents and time zones, nothing beats physical interaction. Take the time to go out and spend time with family and friends whenever possible. Creating memories with loved ones is one of the many joys of life, after all.
Closing thoughts
There is no harm in getting lost in the digital space once in a while. However, being responsible social media users means knowing when to limit ourselves as well as avoid brain rot. Although social media serves as a good distraction, one would still need to step out into the real world.
Photo credit: The feature image is symbolic and has been done by Mark König.
Sources: Oxford University Press / DataReportal / Statista
