The meme we all know and love… But why do we feel the opposite?
We all know this reality. The post that makes us laugh in a group chat, a comment section or as a caption to a screenshot of our screen time. You feel connected.
But have you ever felt like this post is hiding a real, small truth?
At some point, “brain rot” became our slang word. Whether that be watching 40 videos in a row without really remembering any of them, getting that ear worm from a clip you didn’t even like or just reaching for your phone when you already had it. And honestly, it’s relatable! Getting that laugh out of something that you feel like you can’t control, is a great way to help you breathe. Feeling your connection with others through laughing shows you’re not alone and can bring real relief.
But sometimes, joking and laughing can be the most subtle way of avoiding the real question: Are you ok? How it actually feels. It rarely will feel like a big deal. No one will post about this issue. But it may look like opening an app and then closing it again within 10 seconds, starting to read a book/ watch a show/ start a task but can’t stick with it. Finding it hard to settle your restless mind feeling more tired after scrolling, Realizing you can’t remember the last time you wanted to be bored.
You’ll often feel very full without being sleepy. Like your brain is over stimulated and empty.
In 2026, there is always more to scroll on social media. More clips, takes and perfectly timed laughs. Everything is designed to be easy to consume.
Why are we so easily sucked in?
You don’t need a science degree to understand this. Many apps work on giving us quick, little surprises. This can be funny clips, surprising comments or a new notification. Your brain loves new things so you’ll always be reaching for the next thing.
This does not mean you are a weak person. You are a human, these post have been created by very clever people to get our attention. Don’t blame yourself for finding it difficult to resist.
- When Brain Rot hides something
- Sometimes Brain Rot is just a funny term to use for a busy scrolling week. But sometimes it is an indicator that:
- You are using the feed to avoid feelings
- You’re feeling more anxious, blank or grumpy after scrolling
- You’re constantly putting your sleep back.
But most of us aren’t scrolling because we are loving what we’re seeing. We’re scrolling because we’re feeling tired, lonely, stressed or overwhelmed. And the feed is the easiest way to go somewhere without any pressure.
Simple ways to help.
- You don’t need to completely remove everything. Just take small steps.
- Ask yourself one question before opening the app. What are you really feeling? Just saying this to yourself will take some power away from it.
- Allow yourself to feel bored. Whether it be waiting in a queue, on the train or brushing your teeth. Let your mind drift. Boredom allows your thoughts to breathe.
- Set gentle boundaries around your sleep. Charge your phone in another room. This is one of the kindest things you can do for your mind.
- Replace. Have a plan to do something else. Go for a walk, listen to a playlist, draw in your sketchbook or listen to a voice note from a friend.
If you’re noticing you are feeling low, anxious or numb then speaking to a trusted friend, family member or licensed mental health professional can make a real difference. Asking for help is not a bad thing. It is one of the most mature things you can do.
If you ever feel overwhelmed or unsafe then please reach out to someone. Whether it be a crisis line in your country, local emergency number or someone you trust. In Europe you can search for a local helpline via your countries health service or call your local emergency number. You deserve to be cared for and have someone with you.
Brain rot is a joke until it isn’t, and the moment it stops being funny isn’t a failure. It’s information. It’s your mind quietly saying, I need something real.
– Aira 🌿
