Addressing the Growing Concern of "Doom scrolling" and Supporting Our Students' Digital Wellbeing.

In today's fast-paced digital world, many of us have encountered the unsettling phenomenon of "doom scrolling" – the habit of endlessly scrolling through negative news or social media content, often leading to feelings of stress, anxiety, or despair. This growing trend has become a significant concern, particularly for young people who are increasingly exposed to a constant stream of information, much of which can be overwhelming. 

At Durham Cathedral Schools Foundation, we are committed to supporting our students' mental and emotional wellbeing, especially in relation to the challenges posed by digital platforms. Over this week, we have been actively engaging with our pupils and young adults, encouraging open discussions around the impact of doom scrolling and the importance of self-regulation when it comes to digital consumption.

As part of our ongoing efforts, we have integrated this topic into our LWE Tutor Time and held focused discussions with students across various year groups. These sessions aim to raise awareness about the potential harm caused by prolonged exposure to negative content, including feelings of anxiety, depression, and even a skewed perception of reality. Through these conversations, we are equipping students with the tools to manage their digital lives more consciously, encouraging them to take breaks, set boundaries, and engage with media in a balanced, mindful way.

Additionally, we are encouraging students to explore alternative ways to stay informed, focusing on healthy news consumption and ways to engage with social media responsibly. We have found that, when given the opportunity to reflect on their digital habits, many students are keen to make more intentional choices that support their mental health and wellbeing. 

It is worth noting that the issue of social media use among young people is currently being debated within the UK Parliament, with discussions taking place around whether the legal age for accessing social media platforms should be raised to 16. This ongoing conversation reflects growing concerns about the impact of digital platforms on young people's mental health and the role of self-regulation in navigating the online world.

As a school, we remain committed to supporting both our students and their families in navigating these challenges. We encourage you to engage in conversations with your child about their digital habits and to explore the resources available within our LWE programme. Together, we can help foster a more positive, balanced approach to technology in their lives.