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Why We Can’t Look Away: Social Media, Outrage, and Your Brain

Have you ever opened your phone for a quick check-in, only to find yourself deep in an internet-fueled existential crisis? Why does our brain fixate on negativity, and why do social media platforms exploit this? In this episode of Mental Health Potluck, Danny Clark breaks down how social media platforms profit from outrage, why our brains are wired to fixate on bad news, and—most importantly—how to break the cycle before it hijacks your mental health.

We’ll explore the science behind negativity bias, the tactics tech companies use to keep us emotionally invested, and practical strategies to reclaim your attention and peace of mind.

Episode Outline

1. Why Our Brains Fixate on Chaos (2:12)

• The psychology behind negativity bias
• How evolution wired us to pay attention to bad news
• Studies proving that negative news spreads faster than positive news

2. The Outrage Economy & How Social Media Exploits It (5:32)

• How social media algorithms prioritize outrage for engagement
• The business model behind keeping users emotionally on edge
• How platforms personalize negativity to keep you hooked

3. The Mental Health Cost of Doomscrolling (9:21)

• Research on how negative content increases stress, anxiety, and depression
• How your brain absorbs negativity and shifts your worldview
• The cycle of outrage addiction and the dopamine reward loop

4. Five Ways to Break Free from the Outrage Loop (12:24)

• Recognize when you’re in the outrage cycle – Pause before engaging with negative content
• Use the three-day rule – Wait before reacting to emotional news
• Curate your information diet – Choose content that informs rather than enrages
• The 3-to-1 positivity rule – Balance negative exposure with positive inputs
• Digital detox strategies that actually work – Realistic ways to limit harmful social media habits

 Host & Show Info

• Host Name: Danny Clark
• About the Host: Danny Clark is a licensed clinical social worker and family therapist in private practice at the Texas Insight Center.  He takes a no-nonsense approach to mental health and mental wellness while integrating the latest evidence-based research. 
• Podcast Website: TexasInsightCenter.com

Community & Calls to Action

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About Danny Clark
Danny Clark is a licensed clinical social worker and family therapist based in Houston, Texas. As the founder of Texas Insight Center, he specializes in helping individuals, couples, and families navigate mental health challenges with practical, evidence-based approaches.

💡 Is therapy right for you? Let’s talk. If you’re struggling with stress or emotional regulation or just want to explore healthier coping strategies, reach out for a consultation. Visit www.texasinsightcenter.com to learn more and schedule a session.

📩 Have a question or topic suggestion? Send it to [email protected]

You can also follow me on Instagram @texasinsightcenter or visit my webpage at texasinsightcenter.com

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