Stop "Doomscrolling": A Stoic Framework for Consuming News and Politics Without Going Insane
In today's hyper-connected world, it’s easy to get sucked into “doomscrolling”—the endless cycle of consuming negative news that leaves you anxious and overwhelmed. But what if ancient wisdom from Stoicism could help you break free and engage with the world more calmly and wisely?
STOICISM
11/8/20251 min read
The Challenge of the Modern News Cycle
With 24-hour news and social media bombarding us with urgent, distressing stories, it’s natural to feel overwhelmed. But constant exposure to negativity doesn’t just affect mood; it can cloud judgment, increase stress, and consume your valuable time and energy.
What Would the Stoics Say?
Stoicism teaches that our happiness depends largely on the quality of our thoughts and on focusing only on what’s within our control. The Stoics recognized that worrying about events beyond our influence—like a political crisis or distant disaster—only leads to unnecessary suffering.
Seven Stoic Strategies to Manage News Consumption
Practice the Dichotomy of Control
Focus your attention on what you can control: your own thoughts, judgments, and actions. Release anxiety over things outside your power.
Limit Your News Intake
Choose high-quality, trustworthy sources and avoid constant exposure to breaking news. Prioritize depth and understanding over volume.
Use the Discipline of Assent
Don’t automatically accept every impression or headline. Pause and critically evaluate information before reacting.
Balance Awareness With Peace
Stay informed enough to engage responsibly but set boundaries to preserve your inner tranquility.
Embrace Amor Fati (Love of Fate)
Accept what life brings, including the uncomfortable realities, while maintaining your integrity and purpose.
Cultivate Resilience Through Reflection
Use journaling or quiet contemplation to process events and reinforce your values.
Limit Time on Social Media
Social media often amplifies negativity and sensationalism. Mindful limits reduce emotional reactivity.
Final Thought
Doomscrolling isn’t just a bad habit—it challenges our well-being and clarity. Applying Stoic wisdom offers a roadmap to engage with news thoughtfully and peacefully, reclaiming your focus, strength, and joy in a noisy world.
Waste no more time arguing about what a good man should be. Be one - Marcus Aurelius
We suffer more often in imagination than in reality - Seneca
Wealth consists not in having great possessions, but in having few wants - Epictetus