Brain rot and addiction, how social media affects the brain

In recent years, intensive and prolonged use of has raised numerous questions about the effects that can be have on the brain. The term "brain rot", used to describe the deterioration of cognitive abilities, is closely linked to addiction from social media.

But what are the neurological and psychological mechanisms that are activated when we incessantly browse through notifications, feeds and videos? Discover how social media affects the brain and what strategies to adopt to Protect ourselves.

What does brain rot mean? 

Famous for joining Oxford English in 2024 Dictionary, "brain rot" is not a scientific term, but it effectively describes the feeling of mental fog associated with prolonged use of social media. This phenomenon can include short-term memory loss, difficulty in attention and a general sense of tiredness mental.

It has been calculated that between 2023 and 2024 the use of the term has grown by 230% and almost always in relation to the concern about the effects of excessive use of social media on people. Only on TikTok, the hashtag of the expression brain rot has been used more than half million times to refer to absurd and bizarre videos.

Neurological and psychological effects of use excessive social media 

Social media activates key areas of the brain, in dopamine circuit, which is responsible for the sensation of pleasure. At the base there is a biological mechanism: social networks exploit the reward system of the brain, releasing dopamine every time We receive a "like" or a new message. This instant gratification can lead to a behavioral addiction, prompting us to control compulsively our devices.

Receiving a surplus of these stimuli can have precise consequences:

• Reduced concentration. Continuously navigating between apps and notifications reduces the ability to maintain focus on an activity for extended periods.
• Alterations in memory. Constant exposure to new information can compromise the short-term memory consolidation, making it difficult to remember important details.
• Mental stress. Among the effects of social media on the brain there is also this: stimulation stimulates the mind to remain in a constant state of alertness, preventing the cognitive rest necessary.
• Psychological implications and behavioral. In addition to the neurological effects, social media media profoundly affect well-being mental and psychological. Constant comparison with others it feeds social anxiety and insecurity, leading many to measure their value through likes and followers.
• Alterations in the circadian rhythm. Because of the effects artificial blue light, the nighttime use of the devices can alter the sleep-wake cycle, increasing the risk of insomnia and lowering the mood.

How to detoxify from social media and reduce it The negative effects

To reduce the impact of social media on the brain, It is essential to adopt conscious strategies:

• Setting time limits: monitoring are often useful for limiting the time spent online.
• Creating digital-free spaces: find the way of dedicating moments of the day to activities without devices, such as walks or reading.
• Practicing mindfulness: breathing or meditation they help to improve awareness and reduce addiction to social media.
• Replacing digital stimuli: hobbies and live interactions foster greater emotional connection and social.

Brain rot and addiction are just around the corner when you He exaggerates with the use of social media. To preserve the brain, it is It is important to maintain a balanced approach, including breaks activities that stimulate the brain in a healthy way. In some cases, moments, even quenching your thirst with a functional drink can make a difference: Find out how We support psychophysical well-being.