Doomscrolling, the nickname given to constantly reading (usually stressful) content on our always-available phones, can ruin our sleep and apparently cause bathroom-related issues. But it can be tough to put those phones down. TikTok announced on Wednesday that it’s revamping its screen time management page with some new features to limit the amount of time teens spend scrolling — whether it’s worrisome content or not.
The platform is targeting teens by adding a Time and Well-Being section. This new feature includes a positive affirmation journal with over 120 prompts you can download, and a sound generator that plays calming sounds and offers breathing exercises.
You’ll be able to complete well-being missions to earn badges that support mindful habits, such as staying off of TikTok at night and limiting screen time on a daily or weekly basis.
When developing the feature, TikTok consulted with experts and its TikTok Youth Council for guidance.
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“This idea, born thanks to the TikTok Youth Council, recognizes the impact young people can have when given the right platform,” said Tomáš Čermák, a member of the advisory group, in a statement. “I look forward to seeing the change the Time and Well-being space will bring, and I hope it helps teens and adults alike to balance their online lives.”
Earlier this year, the social media app introduced parental controls and other features to help parents monitor what their children are viewing and sharing.
Recently, TikTok also announced that it would allow users to limit the AI-generated content they see on the app.
