The solution to the Trump doomscroll

If you find yourself constantly checking the news for the latest headlines about President Donald Trump, it might be time to admit youre hooked. Many of us get a dopamine hit from outrage-filled stories, and the second term of Trumps presidency has provided plenty of fuel for this habit.

Early in the morning, the temptation is strong: news alerts, images of the president, and the latest political missteps all deliver a brief rush of anger and disbelief. Extrajudicial actions, white nationalist content shared on official channels, and deep cuts to federal programs create that momentary thrill of righteous indignation. Yet, this excitement is fleeting, leaving a sense of helplessness in its wake.

Quitting this news addiction cold turkey isnt easy, and trying to do so abruptly can be counterproductive. A better approach is to filter out sensationalized content from unreliable sources, bots, and superficial political commentary. Within a few days, the urge for constant outrage will diminish, leaving a desire for genuine understanding and thoughtful analysis.

One way to break the cycle is to redirect attention to local journalism. Newspapers, alt-weeklies, and local TV stations are struggling but still provide vital, actionable information. According to a Northwestern University study, the U.S. has lost thousands of newspapers and hundreds of thousands of journalism jobs over the past 20 years, with over 130 closures in the last year alone. The outlets that remain are highly focused on serving their communities.

Local news can still provoke strong reactions, but unlike social media outrage, it offers opportunities for real impact. Issues reported by your town paper can be addressed directlyofficials have phone numbers, meetings are open to the public, and your voice can be heard. Engaging with local matters provides a tangible outlet for your energy, unlike online arguments that algorithms amplify for profit.

Participating in community effortsattending meetings, connecting with like-minded residents, monitoring local developmentscan be frustrating at times, but it also connects you with real people working toward meaningful change. Over time, youll develop trust in your local reporters and know who provides accurate, useful information versus who is merely monetizing your attention.

Shifting focus from global outrage on screens to actionable local involvement may not transform the world overnight, but it is far healthier than endlessly chasing the next viral controversy online. By engaging with your community, you reclaim your energy and contribute to causes where your actions truly matter.

Author: Benjamin Carter