The verdict is final. Our addiction to social networks is not limited to a simple waste of time: it literally destroys our cognitive abilities. A series of scientific studies carried out by prestigious institutions such as Harvard Medical School and the University of Oxford reveal that compulsive consumption of online content reduces the gray matter of our brain. An alarming observation that transforms the colloquial expression that characterizes the stupidest videos on the networks called “brain rot” into a measurable scientific reality.
Infinite scrolling, a weapon of mass destruction for our brain
Social networks have perfectly understood how to exploit the weaknesses of our brain. Infinite scrolling, this feature which allows you to endlessly scroll through content, is not a coincidence. Dr Michoel Moshel from Macquarie University explains that this feature takes advantage of our natural tendency to seek novelty, particularly when it comes to potentially dangerous or alarming information. A mechanism that, ironically, once served for our survival.
This constant overstimulation causes considerable damage. Neuroimaging studies show decreased gray matter volume in brain regions responsible for reward processing, impulse control and decision-making. Even more worrying, these changes are eerily similar to the effects observed in people suffering from addictions to substances such as methamphetamine or alcohol.
An entire generation threatened by “doomscrolling”
The phenomenon particularly affects adolescents, at a crucial moment in their development. The observed neuroanatomical changes disrupt their identity formation and social cognition abilities. A study published in Nature last November highlights a particularly perverse vicious circle: People already suffering from mental health issues are more likely to engage in consuming harmful content, which further aggravates their symptoms.
Eduardo Fernández Jiménez, clinical psychologist at La Paz Hospital in Madrid, highlights another aspect of the problem. Continuous exposure to the varying stimuli of social media forces our brain to constantly shift focus. This exhausting mental gymnastics gradually destroys our ability to maintain sustained attention, the very kind that is essential to the learning process.
Solutions exist, but require collective awareness
The problem is not new. As early as 2005, scientists at the University of London observed a drop of 10 IQ points in people checking their emails compulsively. A more harmful impact than cannabis consumption. Today, with the proliferation of platforms and short formats, the situation has become critical.
Faced with this observation, experts recommend a balanced approach. Dr. Moshel emphasizes the importance of prioritizing educational content and establishing clear limits for daily use. Psychologist Carlos Losada, for his part, advocates a return to physical activities and in-person social interactions, essential to counteract the harmful effects of consuming fast-paced content.
- Excessive consumption of online content physically reduces the brain’s gray matter
- Adolescents are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of “doomscrolling”
- Limiting screen time and returning to physical activities are essential to preserving our mental health
