Stop doomscrolling & start crocheting

It feels like there are so many terrible things happening in the world at present. I keep finding myself being sucked into endless cycles of doomscrolling social media and the news, and it leaves me feeling overwhelmed, pessimistic, and downright crappy. Or maybe that should be cranky. I’ve been cranky too.

I had an ah-ha moment the other day when I decided that I didn’t want to feel this way. I want to feel calm and happy. I want to feel motivated and excited for the day when I get out of bed. I want to enjoy being around other people, and I really don’t want to be cranky.

To help stop doomscrolling and crochet more, I’ve made some changes in my life and it’s making a difference.

Here’s what I’ve been doing:

1. Limiting news and social media:
   I still know what’s happening in the world, but I’ve made it harder to get sucked into all the details. I’ve deleted the social media and news apps from my phone and instead use a web browser. I’ve made checking it a conscious decision, and I’ve discovered that doing it while standing up means I don’t do it for long.
2. Joy of anticipation:
   I’ve planned crochet projects that I’m looking forward to making, and have rekindled my love for reading. I’ve got TV shows and movies that I really want to watch too, and I watch them on streaming and without ads. I’m looking forward to learning and creating with my hands.
3. Connecting in the Crochet Lounge:
   I really love this crocheting group! Joined by our shared love of crochet, it’s a positive and uplifting online space that feels good to be in. I love sharing what I’m making, and I love seeing what other people are making, too. Positivity and creativity really are infectious!

What I’ve realised is that doomscrolling fills time, but it doesn’t fill me up.

It leaves me feeling drained and flat, like I’ve spent my energy on something that gives nothing back. Crochet is the exact opposite. Even a few rows can shift my mood because I’m doing something gentle, creative, and productive. Instead of consuming more noise, I’m making something beautiful and creating more calm in my mind, one stitch at a time.

Crocheting instead of doomscrolling

Whether you’re an absolute beginner or have been doing it for a long time, crocheting is a positive way to keep your hands and mind busy. The added bonus is that you create something that you can enjoy using or give to someone else.

I love immersing myself in a challenging crochet pattern where I have to concentrate on what I’m doing. The rest of the world slips away, and it’s just me, my crochet hook, yarn, and the pattern. My mind focuses on each stitch as I’m making it, and it feels like I’m meditating.

I also like having an easy project that I can do while watching TV or talking (at present it’s Yarn Advent-ure Blanket squares). It keeps my hands busy, and it’s what I pick up at night to help me unwind and relax. If it’s a small project, I also take it out and about with me and do a few stitches while I’m in the car or waiting for an appointment – it’s better than scrolling.

For the ultimate hit of crafting enjoyment, crochet with super chunky yarn! The sense of accomplishment from this quick way of crocheting feels so good, and the texture of the giant stitches is amazing. It’s great for quickly making gifts too, because everyone is fascinated by how different it is.

Simple ways to reach for crochet more often

What has helped me most is making crochet easy to pick up. If your yarn, hook and project are tucked away somewhere, out of sight, your phone will probably win every time. Keeping a simple project within reach makes it much easier to pick up and choose crochet in those little in-between moments.

It also helps to have more than one type of project on the go. A simple project is perfect for evenings, waiting rooms or watching tv, while a more detailed pattern is lovely when you want to properly concentrate and switch off from everything else. That way, crochet can match your mood instead of feeling like another task.

Even a few stitches can make a difference. It doesn’t have to be a long crafting session to be worthwhile. Sometimes just doing a row or two is enough to interrupt the scrolling habit and help you feel calmer again.

Join the Crochet Lounge

A gentler way to spend my time

I’m not going to pretend that I never doomscroll. I fall back into every now and again, but it’s getting easier to stop. I enjoy being excited about crocheting and looking forward to creating beautiful things with my hands.

For me, that’s the real shift. I’m not trying to be perfect, I’m just trying to choose something that makes me feel better more often. Crochet has become one of those small but meaningful ways to bring more calm, creativity, and joy into everyday life.

With love, Lynda.

FAQs

1. Can crochet help with stress and overwhelm?

It can. Crochet gives your hands something repetitive and calming to do, which can help you feel more grounded when your mind is racing.

2. Is crochet a good alternative to doomscrolling?

Yes, because it replaces a draining habit with something creative, practical, and relaxing. Instead of passively consuming bad news, you’re making something positive with your hands.

3. What type of crochet project is best for beginners?

Simple and repetitive projects are usually best, especially if the goal is to relax. Scarves, cowls, and easy blankets are a great place to start.

4. Do I need lots of time for crochet to make a difference?

Not at all. One of the lovely things about crochet is that you can pick it up for just a few minutes. Even a short burst can help break the scrolling cycle.