If you feel sluggish after mindlessly scrolling. TikTok In bed, you’ve probably experienced brain fog – named the Oxford Word of the Year 2024.
Six contenders, including the words ‘slop’ and ‘demure’, were shortlisted. University of Oxford The press’ language experts reflect on some of the moods and conversations that have shaped the past year, and dementia came out on top after a public vote of more than 37,000 people worldwide.
The word winning has been linked to mental fogginess, short attention spans and cognitive decline, but what is it? And is there anything we can do to prevent these negative side effects?
What is a brain disorder?
“The mind “Root is a term people use to describe that dull, numb feeling when you consume a lot of low-quality, repetitive content,” explains Dr. Elena Toroni, a consultant psychologist and co-founder of The are the founders. Chelsea Psychology Clinic. “After hours of scrolling through social media, watching too many shows, or engaging with content that doesn’t challenge or stimulate your brain, it’s a feeling of being mentally drained or sluggish.”
This is actually an old term that has come back into fashion.
“It was American The author [ Henry David] Thoreau, who coined the term in his book Walden in 1854, argued for a simple life, closeness to nature, and distance from the constant chatter of news and trivia that prevailed in England at the time. ” says Craig Jackson. I professor of occupational health psychology Birmingham City University.
“Furthermore, Alvin Toffler wrote in the 1970s that too much media consumption was causing people to experience future shock—a form of mental and cognitive inertia because people cannot cope with all the information they receive. But she was coming.”
But what are the reasons behind its popularity in 2024?
“Brain disorders gain a common experience in today’s hyper-digital world, where many of us feel glued to our screens,” Toroni notes. “With the rise of short-form content like TikTok and Instagram Reels, and the ever-increasing amount of time spent online, the term has taken a breather.
“It also reflects a growing awareness of how our digital habits are affecting our mental clarity and well-being.”
What are its consequences?
“There is no known physical change in the brain or nervous system in those overexposed to brain rot media,” Jackson explained, “but it is both a cognitive and behavioral change.”
And it can encompass a wide range of negative effects.
“The effects can range from difficulty concentrating and decreased productivity to dissatisfaction or even guilt about the time wasted,” Toroni says. “It can also affect mental health, contributing to feelings of stress, anxiety, or lack of purpose.
“Over time, this can make it difficult to focus on meaningful activities or connect with deep thoughts.”
Here are 6 ways to combat it.
1. Set boundaries.
“Limit access to social media and exercise discipline,” advises Jackson. “Limit use to a few fixed times a day and for a fixed period of time.”
2. Find attractive alternatives.
“Swap passive scrolling for more enriching activities, like reading a book, journaling, or finding a creative hobby,” suggests Toroni. “These activities allow your brain to engage in a healthy way.”
3. To move
“Regular exercise is a powerful antidote to mental fog,” Toroni highlights. “Even a short walk outside can help clear your mind and increase your focus.”
4. Take digital detox breaks.
“Although a cliché, a digital detox and going cold turkey from social media can change how consumers view their relationship with social media,” says Jackson. “Twitter-free week will change how it’s viewed going forward.”
5. Stimulate your mind in positive ways.
“Engage with content that challenges you, such as learning a new skill, solving puzzles, or having meaningful conversations,” advises Toroni. “It’s about feeding your brain with quality content.”
6. Be intentional about media selection
“Choose content that aligns with your interests and values, such as documentaries, thought-provoking podcasts or books that inspire you,” advises Toroni.