We’ve all been there — picking up our phones for “just a minute,” only to find ourselves doomscrolling through a never-ending feed of bad news, hot takes, and weirdly specific arguments in the comment section. While it may feel passive, scrolling endlessly can leave you feeling anxious, drained, and somehow more bored than when you started.
If you’re looking for better ways to spend your downtime, you’re in the right place. Here are seven actually fun, healthy, and low-effort alternatives to doomscrolling that won’t make you feel like your brain just ran a marathon through negativity.
1. Try Out Social Casino Games
Sometimes you just want something fun, colorful, and engaging to pass a few minutes — without diving into heavy narratives or competitive online battles. Social casino games offer that balance. They’re designed for entertainment and don’t involve real money, which makes them perfect for stress-free play.
Platforms like Highroller, the innovative and expanding igaming destination offer a huge selection of slots and interactive experiences you can jump into instantly. Whether you’re into classic fruit machines or modern, high-action themes, it’s a relaxing way to unwind with some virtual thrills — no stakes, just fun.
2. Start a 5-Minute Journal Habit
You don’t need to write essays or commit to a full journaling routine to enjoy the mental clarity it brings. A simple daily prompt like “What made me smile today?” or “What’s one thing I’m grateful for?” can redirect your focus in a positive direction.
You can do this digitally or with pen and paper. Either way, it’s a healthier way to use your screen time and clear your head compared to mindless swiping.
3. Browse an Underrated, Feel-Good Subreddit
Not all internet rabbit holes are bad. If you find yourself habitually opening Reddit, redirect your energy toward uplifting communities like:
- r/AnimalsBeingDerps
- r/CasualConversation
- r/MadeMeSmile
These subreddits are full of wholesome, funny, and oddly comforting content — the digital equivalent of a weighted blanket.
For a list of highly-rated, positive spaces online, you can check this helpful community curation by MakeUseOf, which includes subreddits designed to help you feel better, not worse.
4. Take a Virtual Walk (Yes, Really)
YouTube is full of “virtual walk” videos through different cities — think Tokyo side streets, New York at sunset, or rainy London afternoons. Pop in your headphones, pick a city, and just vibe.
These videos are surprisingly relaxing and immersive. Some even include ambient street sounds or soft lo-fi beats. They’re perfect for zoning out in a way that still feels peaceful, not chaotic.
5. Learn a Random New Skill for Fun (Not Productivity)
Not everything has to be part of your “grind.” Try learning something just for the sake of it — no outcome needed. Think:
- Simple card tricks
- How to juggle
- Drawing with your non-dominant hand
- Typing faster
- Folding a fitted sheet properly (finally)
The key is low-stakes play. It’s a satisfying way to engage your brain without the pressure of being good at it.
6. Use a Random Generator to Decide Your Mini Adventure
There’s a weird joy in letting an app or website choose something random for you — it adds surprise to your downtime.
Try:
- A random recipe generator
- A shuffle playlist of songs you’ve never heard
- A Wikipedia random article click (okay, just this once)
- A wheel spinner that picks your next 10-minute task
This trick works especially well if you’re feeling indecisive but want to do something. It removes the decision fatigue and turns boredom into curiosity.
7. Message Someone You Haven’t Talked to in a While
Instead of scrolling through news you can’t control, try reconnecting with someone. Send a quick “Hey, just thinking about you — how’s life?” to a cousin, an old coworker, or a friend you haven’t texted in a while.
It’s a small gesture that often leads to meaningful replies, some nostalgia, or even new plans. Plus, it feels way more fulfilling than watching a stranger argue with a bot.
Final Thought
The next time you catch yourself heading down the doomscrolling rabbit hole, pause and try something that lifts your mood instead. Whether it’s spinning through virtual slots, walking digitally through a European city, or journaling for five minutes, these alternatives are all about giving your brain a break — without making you feel worse afterward.
Boredom doesn’t have to end in a bad algorithm spiral. Just a few tweaks, and your downtime can actually be something you look forward to.
