Feeling Anxious from the News? Experts Explain Why Doomscrolling Is So Hard to Stop — and How to Cope

Climate change, war, overdoses, economic uncertainty — the headlines aren’t easy on the psyche. And for many Canadians, especially those glued to their phones, the emotional toll of constant bad news is starting to show.

“We are not meant to process the weight of the world on a constant basis,” says Kaci-Ann Phillips, a Kamloops-based clinical counsellor.

With clients increasingly naming climate anxiety, global conflict, and economic stress as top concerns, Phillips says it’s no surprise people are feeling overwhelmed.

Why Doomscrolling Feels Unavoidable

In today’s world, the news never stops — and neither do our devices.

“The television we could turn off,” explains Elizabeth Bradley, a registered clinical counsellor in Victoria. “But our phone? It’s always within arm’s reach — even when we’re not staring at it, our brain knows it’s there.”

Bradley says our brains are on high alert, always anticipating the next update — triggering a constant low-level stress response that can erode mental well-being.

What You Can Do

Experts say cutting off news entirely isn’t realistic — or even necessary. But building healthier habits around how we consume information is key.

✅ Set boundaries

• Schedule set times to check the news.

• Try short, device-free periods during your day.

• Ask yourself: “Does this help me act, or just make me anxious?”

✅ Name your emotions

Bradley says labeling feelings of dread or sadness helps your brain process and release them.

“These feelings often stem from empathy,” she says. “That’s something worth acknowledging — and appreciating.”

✅ Focus, Connect, Reset

Phillips recommends a three-step mental reset:

1. Focus on what you can control, even if it's just small actions.

2. Connect with others — community support can reduce isolation and create resilience.

3. Create intentional calm — take time for gentle exercise, nature, or quiet reflection.

In short, experts say you don’t need to tune out the world — just learn to engage with it in ways that protect your mental health.

“It’s OK to stay informed,” says Phillips. “But it’s just as important to give your nervous system space to recover.”