Digital dependency in UHNW young adults: the hidden impact of doomscrolling on mental health

In today’s hyper-connected world, digital addiction has become a pressing concern, with individuals spending an average of 6 hours and 42 minutes online each day¹. And studies have uncovered a worrying connection between the surge in psychological distress, depression, suicidal thoughts, and the increased use of social media use among young adults^2-4.

For young adults within high-profile families, the pressures can be uniquely intensified. The pressures of constant connectivity and the demands of maintaining a public image make them particularly susceptible to digital dependency and the hidden impacts of doomscrolling on their mental wellbeing. Often, these effects go unnoticed, gradually eroding their mental health.

Recognising and addressing these subtle yet significant challenges is crucial in supporting the mental wellbeing of this distinctive group.

Understanding doomscrolling in UHNW young adults

Doomscrolling is the act of compulsively consuming negative news online⁵. It was coined during the COVID-19 lockdowns of 2020, and encapsulates the tendency to endlessly view and absorb negative news or content while mindlessly engaging with social media⁵. This behaviour is particularly common among those already experiencing anxiety or anxiety-related disorders, such as panic disorder, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD), and social anxiety disorder⁶. Experts note that it often stems from a desire for control, and so staying constantly informed seems like a way to manage one’s environment⁶. Yet, doomscrolling rather amplifies these feelings of fear and anxiety⁶.

Regardless, this form of digital dependency in young adults can lead to poor mental and physical health outcomes. Excessive engagement with media or social networking sites, regardless of content, has been linked to feelings of depression and can exacerbate sensations of disconnection and loneliness⁷. Burying oneself in a phone doesn’t alleviate these feelings, but instead often intensifies them⁵.

For young adults from families within elite socioeconomic circles, there are unique triggers that make them particularly susceptible to doomscrolling and the associated mental health challenges:

Social expectations, public visibility, and pressures surrounding family reputation

One significant challenge they face is the immense pressure to succeed, often stemming from parents who have achieved notable success in their fields⁸. This creates intense pressure to excel academically, athletically, or in any pursued activity, and has been linked to higher levels of anxiety and depression ⁸.

Struggles with identity, purpose, and personal validation

with access to abundant material possessions, many young adults from families with significant wealth may grapple with finding purpose and meaning in their lives⁸. They may feel compelled to conform to parental and social expectations, complicating their sense of self⁸. This inner conflict can drive them towards digital addiction as a means of escape or distraction from real-life challenges and familial pressures.

Understanding these factors is crucial in addressing the impact of doomscrolling on mental wellbeing among these young adults. By recognising the underlying causes, it is possible to better support them in overcoming digital dependency and its associated mental health challenges.

The mental health impact of digital dependency

Doomscrolling can carry profound psychological consequences. The relentless consumption of negative news and social media posts can reinforce cycles of negative thoughts and worsening existing mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, while increasing feelings of panic and worry⁹. For individuals already grappling with mental health challenges, this feedback loop can be particularly damaging.

The impact of digital dependency and anxiety goes beyond emotional distress; it can disrupt sleep patterns, heighten stress, and foster an unhealthy reliance on digital validation – where self-worth becomes tied to online interactions. It can also lead to irritability, lack of productivity, mental fatigue, and diminished concentration; all of which further erode overall wellbeing⁹.

While doomscrolling may seem like a passive escape, it deepens feelings of isolation by preventing individuals from engaging with their thoughts and emotions⁹. This disconnect often translates to strained real-life relationships, as the time spent online comes at the expense of meaningful connections with family and friends.

Understanding the impact of doomscrolling on mental health is critical in addressing its root causes and supporting individuals on the path to recovery. By fostering awareness, we can help break the cycle of digital dependency and its detrimental effects.

The role of family and healthcare professionals

For young adults grappling with digital dependency, family members and healthcare professionals play a critical role in identifying early warning signs and offering support. Subtle indicators such as increased irritability, withdrawal from social interactions, and an obsessive preoccupation with online content can signal deeper issues. Additionally, noticeable anxiety when disconnected from their devices may highlight an unhealthy reliance on digital validation.

In discerning, high profile families, addressing these concerns comes with unique complexities. The need to protect autonomy and privacy must be balanced with providing appropriate intervention. Overstepping boundaries can lead to resistance, while too little involvement risks allowing harmful patterns to continue.

Effective support requires a nuanced approach, respecting individual needs while guiding them toward healthier habits. Collaboration between families and healthcare providers is essential, fostering an environment of trust and compassion to help young individuals break free from the grips of digital addiction, and reclaim wellbeing.

Harbor’s Approach to Digital Wellness in UHNW Young Adults

The impacts of doomscrolling extend far beyond the screen. For young adults, these habits can reflect deeper challenges tied to family dynamics, identity struggles, or unmet emotional needs. Therefore, a whole-person approach addresses not only the mental health conditions exacerbated by digital dependency but also helps clients rethink their relationship with technology.

Whether the root cause stems from familial pressures or a lack of purpose, solutions must be tailored to meet individual needs. This might involve involving family members in therapy, guiding clients toward mindfulness and meditation practices, or exploring spiritual approaches to foster a sense of fulfilment.

Privacy and discretion are paramount, especially for clients from prominent families. This is where private, individualised mental health care ensures clients can seek support without fear of exposure, allowing them to heal in an environment of absolute confidentiality.

Guiding young adults toward healthier digital habits isn’t just about addressing current challenges – it’s about equipping them with the tools to sustain their mental wellbeing long-term. If you’re concerned about the impact of digital addiction on someone you know or a patient in your care, Harbor offers compassionate, discreet support tailored to their unique needs.

Reach out to learn more about fostering genuine recovery and balance.

References

1. https://www.philmckinney.com/the-silent-epidemic-the-growing-problem-of-digital-addiction/#:~:text=The%20Rise%20of%20Digital%20Addiction,that%20is%20expected%20to%20continue.
2. http://www.pvmarquez.com/socialmediausagementalhealth#:~:text=Impact%20on%20Adolescents’%20Wellbeing&text=(2019)%2C%20indicates%20a%20correlation,use%20and%20lack%20of%20sleep.
3. https://www.apa.org/pubs/journals/releases/abn-abn0000410.pdf
4. https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0148296321005269
5. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/everything-you-need-to-know-about-doomscrolling-and-how-to-avoid-it
6. https://www.verywellmind.com/what-is-doomscrolling-5088882
7. https://futurecarecapital.org.uk/latest/doomscrolling-linked-poor-mental-health/#:~:text=Doomscrolling%2C%20the%20name%20for%20the%20compulsive%20urge,physical%20health%20outcomes%2C%20a%20study%20has%20found.
8. https://www.psychologytoday.com/gb/blog/emotional-fitness/202303/the-struggles-of-growing-up-rich
9. https://www.caldwellmemorial.org/wellness/wellbeing-with-caldwell/doom-scrolling-and-its-effect-on-your-mental-health/