Last night, I sat down to write this blog when my phone buzzed. I tried to ignore it by muting my phone and telling myself I would look at it later, but I couldn’t resist. My intention was just to open it, respond to a few texts, and then go back to writing. Next thing I knew, an hour had passed, lost to scrolling through different apps and fulfilling my need for stimulation.

Is doomscrolling ruining our attention spans? We consume so much media in 10–20 second clips that it becomes harder and harder to concentrate on anything less stimulating.

Simple tasks that aren’t instantly rewarding feel impossible to complete. Students struggle to pay attention to lectures or to read long pieces of writing.

We have the option to scroll aimlessly, constantly fluctuating our emotions—but in real life, this option doesn’t exist. That’s why we so often give in to our addiction.

Our concentration skills are rapidly decreasing. In the future, the real world may feel too understimulating for us. At what point does “brain rot” become irreversible? And how soon will it come?

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I do enjoy summer, but fall will always be my favorite. People often tie joy to summer–the longer days, tanned skin, and a feeling of endless freedom. But for me, summer triggers a sense of impending doom. The constant expectation of making it “the best one yet”, and the never-ending worry of what’s to come next.

Fall is calm and steady. Cozy clothes are a necessity and I can stay inside without feeling guilty for missing out on the high UV rays, or social events. There is always something special to look forward to: Holidays, winter break, tasty food, and familiar traditions. Whereas with summer, I dread beginning the school year, giving farewells to faraway friends, and saying goodbye to my sweet freedom.

Although Fall doesn’t give you blazing heat, it somehow feels warmer. No matter how old I grow, where I am, or who I’m with, it will always feel nostalgic. I get giddy just thinking about the feeling of the crisp air and the dark nights. Fall asks nothing of you–It lets you breathe. No fuss, no pressure–just fall.  

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