What is "doomscrolling," and why do people engage in it despite its negative effects?

Doomscrolling refers to the habit of continuously scrolling through negative news or social media posts, even though it leads to anxiety or distress. People engage in doomscrolling because of a natural curiosity about current events, a desire to stay informed, or even a compulsion to seek out bad news during stressful times. Despite its negative effects on mental health, such as increased anxiety or depression, the habit persists due to the addictive nature of social media and the constant availability of new content. It highlights the challenges of navigating the overwhelming information landscape of the internet.