When was the last time you spent the majority if not all of the day in bed? As per usual, TikTok has come up with a name and created a trend out of this habit: “bed rotting.” Yes, the second part of the moniker may seem to have a negative connotation, but the phrase is quite nuanced and is advancing conversation around mental health, rest and burnout. Keep scrolling to learn more about the mental health care trend, if it actually helps mental health issues and if it leaves people feeling good.
What is ‘bed rotting’?
“Bed rotting” has been packaged as a form of self care and consists of spending a significant amount of time in bed and taking part in low-energy activities like binge watching TV or perusing social media instead of regular daily activities that exert significant energy, explains Brook Choulet, MD, The Performance Psychiatrist.
“These behaviors tend to overlap with symptoms of depression and burnout, as one frequently is more isolated and not interested in their usual activities during those times,” she adds.
While this term is relatively new, the action itself is not. “Bed rotting” as a phenomenon is a product of the way social media popularizes and celebrates behaviors linked to self-care and rest, says Dr. Choulet.
@lenn.xxxx Bed rotting isnt just having a movie day, it’s when your mental health cant cope so all you can do is stay in bed, sleeping or scrolling. ✨I made these rules myself when i couldn’t leave the house for a while but was trying to improve: step by step and doing these makes you feel like you’ve acheived the smallest thing ❤️🩹 #mentalhealthhelp #anxietytips #wellnesstips #wellnessadvice #mindsetmotivation
‘Bed rotting’ and its complex connection to mental health
Staying in bed throughout the day is related to mental health, notes Dr. Choulet, and can easily result in social isolation, as well as physical and mental health issues if approached in an unhealthy capacity. “Bed rotting” tends to overlap with symptoms of depression and burnout, she says, as one frequently is alone and not pursuing their usual routine or interests during those times.
There’s no clinical term for “bed rotting,” but it generally refers to a state of inactivity that can result from stress as well as stress coping mechanisms, adds Bryan Bruno, MD, Medical Director at medical center Mid City TMS.
The appeal of “bed rotting” lies in its promise of guilt-free relaxation at a time when many feel overworked and burnt out, explains Kristie Tse, LMHC, Psychotherapist and Founder of Uncover Mental Health Counseling. Today’s fast-paced lifestyle leaves little room for taking breaks, she notes, making this trend resonate strongly with individuals seeking relief from societal pressures.
“As a psychotherapist, I often see clients who feel compelled to constantly achieve and perform” she says. “‘Bed rotting’ taps into their need for a pause, a moment to recharge, yet we must be cautious. What starts as self-care can easily shift into avoidance if it’s used as an escape from underlying issues.”
While rest and recuperation are essential, when “bed rotting” becomes excessive and one is spending too much time engaging in this behavior – say for multiple days – it may negatively impact mental health, says Dr. Choulet.
Mental health risks associated with too much “bed rotting” include feelings of isolation, depression and anxiety, the experts agree.
How to participate in ‘bed rotting’ in a healthy way
Experts say the way to healthily participate in “bed rotting” and reap the restorative benefits is to prioritize moderation and balance.
“As long as it is not being done excessively, ‘bed rotting’ is not bad for you and in fact, it may be beneficial if it is done with the intention of rest, relaxation or even contemplation,” says Dr. Bruno. “It is very important to rest for the sake of one’s mental health and it is always very helpful to take some time off to have a break and get a hold of one’s emotions.”
@lifeasraven If you feel stuck, try doing these 5 things for AT LEAST once & see how you feel🫶🏾 #bedrotting #rottinginbed #bedrottingsummer #doomscrolling #productiveday #greenscreen
Be intentional with the way you engage in “bed rotting,” he suggests. Set limits, such as designating a day or a few hours where you can fully relax without feeling guilty, but balance it with physical activity and social interactions. It’s important to remember why you are taking this time so that you don’t overdo it, he cautions.
“If you set boundaries around your time in bed, you can achieve a good balance,” adds Dr. Choulet. “It’s important to engage in regular physical and social activity for your mental and physical health. It’s also important to create boundaries around how you spend your time in bed. Are you mindlessly scrolling social media or engaging in a thought-provoking activity like reading? You could also consider using the time to meditate.”
This content is not a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always consult your physician before pursuing any treatment plan.
