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Stop Doom Scrolling, Stop Doom Shopping: How to be a Green Flag for the Earth!

22 Apr 2026

Credit: Adrial G.

Mindless scrolling and impulsive shopping are often dismissed as normal habits, yet their impact is far greater than it seems. Doom scrolling keeps us trapped in a constant stream of negative information, while doom shopping encourages overconsumption patterns that lead to waste accumulation and an increased carbon footprint. This raises an important question: why is it so difficult to break these two habits, and to what extent are they impacting us and the environment? This issue is relevant because small habits, repeated over time, can form unsustainable lifestyle patterns.

These habits don’t arise without reason. E motional impulses, boredom, and even the influence of algorithms can lead us to repeat the same behavior. Without realizing it, small decisions like “scroll for a minute” or “check out first” can become repetitive patterns. At this point, it’s crucial to begin reexamining how we interact with screens and how we consume, because that’s where change can begin.

From a mental health perspective, doom scrolling and doom shopping both form a cycle that’s difficult to break. When we’re exposed to negative news, our brains often send signals of prolonged alertness. This can lead to anxiety, stress, and symptoms of depression, leaving the mind feeling overwhelmed and making it difficult to truly rest. As a result, sleep quality decreases, focus is impaired, and daily productivity can suffer. According to the American Psychological Association, constant exposure to negative information can increase stress levels and worsen a person’s emotional state. Furthermore, the World Health Organization has stated that excessive digital media use can lead to mental health problems. Social media algorithms contribute to a feedback loop that reinforces the habit of doom scrolling.

Furthermore, doom shopping, or compulsive buying-shopping, often emerges as a response to stress and emotional distress. Recent scoping reviews indicate that higher levels of stress are associated with more severe symptoms of compulsive buying-shopping disorder. In other words, impulsive purchasing may provide temporary relief; however, it does not address the underlying emotional issues. Once this brief sense of euphoria subsides, feelings of guilt, regret, and renewed stress may re-emerge.

Furthermore, the habit of doom shopping also impacts the environment. Excessive consumption drives increased production, which means greater use of natural resources and increased carbon emissions. Many products are purchased impulsively, often without real need, and ultimately become waste. Industries like fast fashion and fast beauty can generate large amounts of waste due to constantly changing cycles and trends. Furthermore, packaging and shipping processes contribute to environmental problems. The use of single-use plastics, cardboard, and transportation emissions to deliver products exacerbate pollution and accelerate climate change. If these habits continue, the impact will be felt not only by individuals but also by the entire ecosystem.

Credit: Adrial G.

Doom scrolling and doom shopping are not just trivial habits, but behaviors that have a significant impact on health and the environment. Both are interconnected, forming a cycle that is detrimental to both individuals and the ecosystem. Therefore, awareness and concrete steps are needed to break this cycle. From a media usage perspective, we can start by limiting screen time, managing notifications, and being more selective in choosing the content we consume. Meanwhile, from a consumption perspective, it’s important to apply the principles of mindful shopping, or reviewing what is needed and what is not. This includes delaying purchases, evaluating needs, and choosing more environmentally friendly and durable products. Furthermore, developing alternative habits like exercising, writing, or engaging in creative activities can also help manage emotions without relying on screens or shopping.

Ultimately, being a “green flag” for the earth doesn’t have to start with a major step. Small changes made consistently, such as stopping excessive scrolling and being more mindful when shopping, can make a real contribution. By maintaining a balance between mental health and consumption patterns, we not only create a healthier life for ourselves, but also a better future for the environment.

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Kelompok 7 CP H&E - ALS 26'27