Doomscrolling and Bipolar: How to Break Free

Doomscrolling can be especially harmful for people with bipolar disorder, amplifying mood changes and fueling anxiety or depression. In this episode, Gabe Howard, who lives with bipolar disorder, and Dr. Nicole Washington, a board certified psychiatrist, dive into the dark world of doomscrolling and why it’s particularly damaging for people living with bipolar disorder. They explore why doomscrolling feels addictive and how it impacts your mental health. You'll learn actionable tips to curb this habit, including setting boundaries with technology, creating healthier routines, and finding alternative ways to stay informed. This conversation offers practical solutions tailored to life with bipolar disorder, helping you take back your time and mental well-being. Hit play to learn how to reclaim your time and happiness! “We have in our hands a computer that's capable of having family photos, family videos. You know, aim it at your children, aim it at your dog, aim it at your cat. Aim it at your best friend. Have them sing you a little song. Whatever it takes. Just find something that replaces the doomscrolling. Because I really believe that people are listening to this episode because they know they're doing it, and they know it's not making them better, and they don't know why they're doing it and they don't know how to stop.” ~Gabe Howard, Host To learn more -- or read the transcript -- please visit our official episode page. Our host, Gabe Howard, is an award-winning writer and speaker who lives with bipolar disorder. He is the author of the popular book, "Mental Illness is an Asshole and other Observations," available from Amazon; signed copies are also available directly from the author. To learn more about Gabe, or book him for your next event, please visit his website, gabehoward.com. You can also follow him on Instagram and TikTok at @askabipolar. Our host, Dr. Nicole Washington, is a native of Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where she attended Southern University and A&M College. After receiving her BS degree, she moved to Tulsa, Oklahoma to enroll in the Oklahoma State University College of Osteopathic Medicine. She completed a residency in psychiatry at the University of Oklahoma in Tulsa. Since completing her residency training, Washington has spent most of her career caring for and being an advocate for those who are not typically consumers of mental health services, namely underserved communities, those with severe mental health conditions, and high performing professionals. Through her private practice, podcast, speaking, and writing, she seeks to provide education to decrease the stigma associated with psychiatric conditions. Find out more at DrNicolePsych.com.