新华深读|大脑也怕“超载”

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "information overload" and its detrimental effects on mental health, highlighting the need for awareness and strategies to mitigate its impact on cognitive functions and overall well-being [1][2][3]. Group 1: Information Overload and Its Effects - The term "brain rot" has emerged to describe the cognitive decline and mental fatigue caused by excessive information consumption in the digital age [1]. - Research indicates that the human sensory system can collect information at a rate of approximately 1 billion bits per second, while the brain's processing speed is only about 10 bits per second, leading to a significant overload [3]. - Continuous exposure to fragmented and low-quality information, such as repetitive social media notifications, contributes to cognitive stress and can impair memory and attention [2][3]. Group 2: Behavioral Patterns and Digital Consumption - The average individual spends over 150 minutes daily on short video platforms, with total screen time often exceeding 4 hours, indicating a pervasive digital engagement [4]. - Algorithm-driven content recommendations lead to a cycle of instant gratification, causing users to engage in what is termed "information bingeing," which is linked to the brain's reward mechanisms [5][6]. - The prevalence of multi-tasking in digital environments can overwhelm the brain, resulting in increased error rates and cognitive fragmentation, particularly among adolescents [6][7]. Group 3: Strategies for Mitigating Information Overload - Experts suggest setting boundaries for digital consumption, such as limiting daily screen time and establishing "no screen" periods to encourage face-to-face interactions [9][10]. - Engaging in alternative cognitive training activities, such as reading physical books and practicing mindfulness, can help restore the brain's capacity for sustained attention [10]. - Recent regulations in China emphasize the importance of educating minors on healthy internet usage and the responsibilities of various stakeholders in preventing internet addiction [10].