Scientist at DHBW Karlsruhe explains why the constant stream of news is stressful – and how to deal with it in a healthy way. The latest JIM (Youth Information Media) Study 2024 shows that ‘news fatigue’ is on the rise – and not just among young people. But why are we becoming more and more tired of news? Jan Michael Rasimus, Head of the Eye Tracking Laboratory at DHBW Karlsruhe, explains why the flood of news is overwhelming – and how we can protect ourselves from it. The ability to categorise information is significantly economical for the brain.
Karlsruhe/Germany, April 15, 2025. Instead of being better informed thanks to lots of news, the exact opposite is currently happening! News fatigue – tired of the news.
The constant flood of information often leads to stress, exhaustion or deliberate news avoidance. At the same time, many people fall into doomscrolling – the compulsive consumption of negative headlines. But why is this so stressful and how can we deal with it in a healthy way?
Being able to categorise things is a central component of a knowledge society that needs to be cultivated! If my attention is drawn to things that I can perhaps use to adorn myself somewhere in a group, then I am not sufficiently developed, inferior and inadequately cultivated.
Cultivation would mean that, in the best case, I know how to integrate the relevance of a message into an overall topic, into an overall context. This puts much less strain on the brain than trying to process masses of information that has no relevance for me.
Why the flood of news overwhelms us, the brain in alarm mode
‘Our brain is designed to recognise dangers at an early stage,’ explains Jan Michael Rasimus. „But in the digital world, there is no pause. The constant confrontation with negative news keeps our stress system on permanent alert. The risk of anxiety, exhaustion and depressive moods increases.“ Those who feel powerless often withdraw or search incessantly for new information – a vicious circle that can put a strain on mental health.
Media mechanisms exacerbate the problem
According to Rasimus, the design of modern news platforms ensures that users continue to consume: „Sensationalist journalism gets a lot of attention. It relies on sensationalist headlines to generate clicks. Algorithms in social media amplify this effect by prioritising such content. This easily creates a distorted view of the world that focuses primarily on negative events.“ A feeling of helplessness can also result when people realise that they themselves have no control over major world events.
Fake news and targeted disinformation
The spread of fake news and AI-supported deceptions is increasing – and with it the risk of distorted perceptions. Rasimus clarifies: ‘If there is a lack of orientation in the world of information, people are particularly susceptible to disinformation.’ This weakens trust in independent journalism and favours extreme opinions, which could ultimately also jeopardise democratic processes.
The consequences: Stress, anxiety, jeopardising democracy
Psychological: Constant stress, exhaustion and anxiety are on the rise.
Social: Less informed people are more susceptible to manipulation and populism.
Political: News avoidance weakens democratic processes and active participation in debates.
How we can protect ourselves from news fatigue – targeted consumption instead of endless scrolling
Set fixed times: ‘It helps to consciously define time slots for news instead of constantly checking updates.’
Use reputable sources: ‘Quality journalism instead of sensationalist news – this reduces stress and promotes a balanced view of reality.’
Choose solution-orientated reporting: ‘News that also highlights positive developments and possible solutions helps you to feel less powerless.’
Take breaks: ‘Regular digital time-outs promote mental health and help you to process information more consciously.’
Strengthen media literacy
Media literacy is essential, especially in the context of news fatigue. Anyone who critically scrutinises information can more easily expose fake news and disinformation. Rasimus calls for significantly more educational programmes: ‘Digital media skills should be promoted at an early age so that young people can learn to classify news and navigate the digital world with confidence.’
Conclusion: Stay informed consciously
News fatigue is a challenge in today’s media society, but conscious consumption helps us to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed. ‘We shouldn’t avoid news, but rather consume it in a targeted and considered way,’ says Rasimus. Those who choose well-founded reporting, take breaks and strengthen their media skills stay informed – without being overwhelmed by the flood of news.
Image source
DHBW KA//RM, Jan-Michael Rasimus, News Fatigue: When news overwhelms you