Doomscrolling: How Substack Can Help You Become More Literate

It is becoming increasingly common for teenagers to spend hours scrolling through their phones, consuming tens or even hundreds of short-form videos and posts that are not always intellectually engaging. This habit is commonly known as doomscrolling. According to the Merriam-Webster Dictionary, doomscrolling is defined as “spending excessive time scrolling through online content, especially news, that makes one feel sad, anxious, angry, or distressed.”

One of the consequences of excessive doomscrolling is that it can make it harder for us to concentrate on important activities that challenge and develop our minds. Spending too much time consuming short-form content may also weaken our reading habits and attention spans. Most of us know that this is not a healthy habit, especially when we realize how difficult it can be to stop. So, how can we protect our minds and maintain our literacy skills in the middle of this digital age?

The answer is simple: read more and, even better, write more! Try reading content that stimulates your curiosity, introduces you to new ideas, and encourages you to think critically. You can also develop your creativity by expressing your thoughts through writing, whether on paper or online. But where can you find a platform that combines the convenience of scrolling with meaningful reading and writing? Don't worry! We have a recommendation for you: Substack!

Substack is an online platform where people can read and publish their own writing on a wide variety of topics. It allows users to discover interesting articles in a way that feels familiar to anyone who enjoys scrolling through social media. However, instead of simply consuming short-form content, users can spend their time engaging with longer and more thoughtful pieces of writing. The topics are incredibly diverse, including self-reflection, personal development, psychology, politics, analysis, and both real-life and fictional stories. There is even a community for poetry lovers. In addition, users can connect with people who share similar interests and exchange ideas with one another. In many ways, Substack feels like an online library filled with articles and stories that match your interests.

In today's edition of Today's Articles, we interviewed one of your fellow students about her experience using Substack. Meet Agna Seksio Firgiani from XI Science A2, a dedicated Substack user! When we asked her what she usually reads on the platform, she explained that she enjoys melancholy articles about love, psychology, spirituality, and even politics. Quite an interesting combination, isn't it?

Agna also shared that using Substack for several months has helped her improve her writing skills. She has noticed the difference not only in her school assignments but also in her diary entries and the poems she occasionally writes. When asked how highly she would recommend Substack to other teenagers on a scale of 1 to 10, she gave it a 9. She explained that there are several reasons behind her recommendation.

First, reading articles on Substack can help expand your vocabulary in both English and Indonesian. Second, many of the articles discuss topics that are relatable to teenagers. Third, reading can be an enjoyable way to relax, while writing provides an opportunity to express your thoughts and feelings. Fourth, the platform offers access to a wide range of free and engaging content. Finally, it allows users to connect with like-minded people and build new friendships.

So, are you convinced yet? Substack may be a great place to begin developing healthier digital habits while improving your reading and writing skills. Instead of spending all your screen time scrolling through content without much purpose, why not use some of that time to read something meaningful or write down your own ideas? Remember, being literate is not just about reading books; it is also about thinking critically, expressing ideas, and continuing to learn. Let's make our screen time more meaningful!

Reflection Questions

1. What is doomscrolling? Have you ever experienced this habit?

2. Why can reading and writing help sharpen your mind?

3. Do you have Substack installed on your phone? If so, what kinds of articles do you usually read? If not, would you consider installing it? Why or why not?