Does TikTok's viral self-care trend 'Bed-rotting' have potential to harm mental health? Here's what experts say

TikTok users post videos of themselves bed-rotting, often tucked under blankets with snacks or a phone in hand. Dr. Jessica Gold, an assistant professor of psychiatry at Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis and a TikTok user, explains the latest self-care trend called bed-rotting.

She describes bed-rotting as the activity of staying in bed all day long, hence the term 'rotting.' TikTok users post videos of themselves bed-rotting, often tucked under blankets with snacks or a phone in hand.

Gold states that bed-rotting is similar to having a lazy day but emphasizes its immobility and reduced activity.

Does it affect your mental health?

Simon A. Rego, a professor of psychiatry and behavioral sciences at Albert Einstein College of Medicine and chief of psychology and director of psychology training at Montefiore Medical Center in New York City, suggests that bed-rotting can be beneficial for "slowing down to recharge, refresh, and reset," but balance is important. He adds that spending too much time in bed can disrupt mood and increase stress.

Rego warns that, despite the temporary feeling of goodness, excessive bed-rotting may indicate various mental health concerns.

He suggests that it could also be seen as a way of "avoiding the feelings, stress, or pain of being awake."

Kelly Glazer Baron, an associate professor of family and preventive medicine at the University of Utah in Salt Lake City, advises that if you are not asleep within 30 minutes of getting into bed or are awake for more than 20 minutes during the night, you should get out of bed as a general guideline.

Experts recommend alternative options such as spending time with a friend, exercising, or practicing mindfulness to avoid bed-rotting.

FAQs

Q1:What is Bed-rotting?
Bed rotting is a new social media trend that has gone viral on Tiktok where users post videos of themselves staying in bed for days doing no activity.

Q2:Is bed rotting bad for mental health?
Experts advise against overdosing no matter how good it feels in the moment.