New research shows flicking through digital content increases feelings of boredom – which comes with mental health risks.
Like the majority of people, when I’m bored I reach for my phone. Whether it’s TikTok, Instagram Reels or YouTube Shorts, I turn to social media to distract me.
But according to new research, using social media to distract from boredom is actually doing the opposite.
In a study published last month by the American Psychological Association, researchers found that quickly flicking through digital video content or fast-forwarding through it (what Gen Z call ‘doomscrolling’) led to increased feelings of boredom.
Not only that, but participants also reported feeling less satisfied and less engaged with the content.
Read more: Can a dumbphone save me from smartphone addiction or will it just make life harder?
“If people want a more enjoyable experience when watching videos, they can try to stay focused on the content and minimise digital switching,” explains Katy Tam, PhD, a postdoctoral researcher at the University of Toronto. “Just like paying for a more immersive experience in a movie theatre, more enjoyment comes from immersing oneself in online videos rather than swiping through them.”
Researchers also conducted experiments in which participants were made to watch longer videos (10 to 50 minutes) either in full or with limits to how much they could fast-forward to skip through content, which they reported to be more satisfying, engaging and meaningful.
“Digital switching may make the content of online videos seem meaningless because people don’t have time to engage with or understand the content,” says Katy.
While nobody enjoys being bored, occasional boredom is part and parcel of life and can be a good thing.
“Sometimes experiencing a little boredom can be beneficial and spur you into action,” says Jessica Shiel, head of life enrichment and wellbeing at KYN, which runs three London care homes.
“It might lead you to a path of self-improvement, to tackle that task that’s been on your list, or perhaps encourage you to get outside and move your body.
Here she shares four ways to beat boredom…
Read more: How to curb doom spending and protect your finances
What to do when you’re bored, according to an expert
Test yourself: “Brain-training games, puzzles and quizzes can help to support brain function, improve communication and boost mood, which – in turn – can build the confidence to explore new interests and increase personal fulfilment.”
Find a creative outlet: “Sometimes brilliant creativity is born from boredom. Creativity is a great outlet for supporting mental health, and in some cases, it even has physical benefits, including enhanced muscle coordination, increased blood circulation and improved agility, which is particularly beneficial for older adults. From painting, collage and calligraphy to printmaking, there are so many ways to get creative, which can easily be adapted to suit any ability. Exploring new creative pursuits outside the home, in an art class or workshop, can also help you make new connections within your community, meaning an even longer lasting effect on your boredom.”
Read up: “Reading is an ideal solo activity and offers something tangible if your hands are itching to sign into a streaming site. Research has found that 30 minutes of reading lowered blood pressure, heart rate and feelings of psychological distress just as effectively as yoga and humour does.”
Reach out: “One of the more negative side effects of boredom is feeling isolated – and opening social media can only accentuate this. Let that feeling nudge you towards making the first move and contact someone you haven’t spoken to in a while. Social connection can lead to longer life, better health and wellbeing. It can improve your ability to manage stress, anxiety and depression, healthy eating habits, physical activity and even your quality of sleep.”
