From dopamine traps to late-night anxiety, excessive scrolling is taking a toll on our mental well-being. Licensed clinical psychologist Dr. Julia Turetskaya explains the science behind the habit—and how to reclaim your digital balance.
Imagine the following scenario. It’s 9:30 p.m. on a random Tuesday night. You pick up your cell phone for “just a second,” and suddenly, it’s past midnight. You have just witnessed dream vacations, flawless faces and bodies, impressive career updates, and ideal romantic and family moments. The following day, you find yourself feeling more tired, less motivated, and overall dissatisfied with yourself and your life. Whether you’re a 14-year-old scrolling before a big exam, a 35-year-old balancing work and family life, or 65 and staying in touch with your grandchildren, these feelings appear to be surprisingly common across generations.
