Do Yourself a Favor: Don’t Read the News This Week
Psychology Today
by T. Alexander Puutio Ph.D.February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Constant news consumption may feel responsible or even virtuous, but research reveals that staying constantly informed can distort your perception of reality, elevate stress levels, and negatively impact psychological well-being. Author Rolf Dobelli argues that modern news functions more as an attention trap than a source of education, skewing our understanding of risks and events due to the availability heuristic—the tendency to overestimate the likelihood of events based on their prominence in media. Studies show that excessive news exposure during crises, such as the COVID-19 pandemic, is linked to increased anxiety, stress, and depressive symptoms.
The cognitive and emotional toll of constant digital exposure is well-documented. Psychology research highlights how sustained news consumption taxes our mental systems, often without us noticing. For instance, randomized studies have found that reducing screen time and blocking mobile internet can lead to improved mood, well-being, and focus—though these experiments don’t specifically isolate the effects of news alone.
Instead of focusing on the daily outrage cycle or obsessively checking headlines, taking a break from news consumption can be a powerful step toward better mental health. By stepping away from constant updates, individuals may find themselves reaping benefits like reduced stress and improved attention spans. The article suggests treating this as an experiment in mindfulness: trust that if something truly significant happens, the world will make sure you know about it.
For those looking to prioritize their well-being, limiting news intake for a week can be a meaningful exercise. This shift not only helps break habits of overconsumption but also creates space for more nourishing activities—ones that contribute to long-term mental and emotional health rather than short-term engagement. By consciously reducing exposure to the endless stream of information, readers can better manage stress, maintain perspective, and foster a healthier relationship with their digital environment.
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/23/2026