“Doomscroll Reminder Lady” Karen K. Ho explains how to step away from the screen
"I think the thing that was really surprising to people was how consistent I was because right now nothing's really consistent. It's all really chaotic. And they felt like somebody was looking out for them."
Scientific American asked Ho what her project has taught her about why people doomscroll-and how they can stop.
Then there's the compulsion for many people to be better informed about the chaotic situation that many of us are currently in as a result of the pandemic, the uncertainty regarding the economic recession, as well as the social justice situation affecting many minorities, women and vulnerable groups in the United States and around the world.
A lot of people have turned to writing cards and letters as an alternative activity during the pandemic.
Some people like cooking, some people bake-it's really about personal psychology.
No one will be like, "I went viral a lot." They'll be like, "Did I have enough energy to do my job pretty well? Do the people we love know that we love them?" I think those are the things to really invest energy in.
I'm trying to meet people where they already are.
There are lots of medical people who follow me because of the reminders, a lot of science reporters and health reporters, and they're doomscrolling because of repeated systemic failures by people in power.
Doing something, having a series of steps for people to do, I find reduces their stress.
So that's why you see me recommend drinking water or stretching-because unconsciously people let these things slide.