The Silent Epidemic: Brain Rot by Social Media

Intro duction In the age of digital dominance, social media has transformed how we connect, share, and consume information. While it offers myriad benefits, there’s an insidious side to this virtual world. Welcome to the era of brain rot—a phenomenon where excessive social media use erodes cognitive function and mental well-being. What is brain rot? “Brain rot” is a colloquial term describing the cognitive decline resulting from excessive screen time and social media consumption. It manifests as decreased attention span, impaired memory, and reduced critical thinking skills. The Dark Side of the Feed 1. The Constant Dopamine Rush Social media platforms are designed to keep users hooked through constant notifications, likes, and shares. This triggers a release of dopamine, the brain’s reward chemical, creating a cycle of dependency. “The more we get used to instant gratification, the harder it becomes to focus on longer, more challenging tasks.” 2. Information Overload The ...