Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the phenomenon of "information overload" and its detrimental effects on mental health, particularly highlighting the concept of "brain rot" as a symptom of cognitive decline due to excessive low-quality information consumption [2][3]. Group 1: Information Overload and Its Effects - "Brain rot" is a term that describes the cognitive fatigue and decline resulting from information overload, likening the brain's struggle to process information to running with a heavy load in high altitude [2]. - The human sensory system can collect information at a rate of approximately 1 billion bits per second, while the brain processes only about 10 bits per second, illustrating a significant disparity between information intake and processing capacity [3]. - The average individual in China spends over 150 minutes daily on short video platforms, leading to an overall screen time of around 4 hours when including other activities like gaming and social media [3]. Group 2: Psychological Mechanisms - The brain's reward system, particularly the dopamine pathways, is activated when individuals gain knowledge or emotional value from information, contributing to a cycle of compulsive information consumption [4]. - The strong functionality of smartphones and the prevalence of multitasking create an environment where users are easily overwhelmed by information streams, as the brain is not well-equipped to handle parallel processing [5]. Group 3: Impact on Youth - Information overload has clear negative impacts on adolescents, with cases of cognitive issues such as disorganized language and weak narrative skills emerging from excessive consumption of low-quality information [6]. - Many young individuals exhibit anxiety in academic or social discussions while showing excitement for gaming and short video topics, indicating a lack of depth in their cognitive processing [6]. Group 4: Solutions for Reducing Cognitive Load - The concept of "digital minimalism" is gaining traction as a lifestyle choice aimed at regaining control over digital consumption, encouraging users to limit their use of digital tools [7]. - Experts suggest implementing boundaries for digital behavior, such as setting daily limits for recreational internet use and designating "screen-free" periods to foster face-to-face interactions [7]. - Alternative cognitive training methods, such as reading physical books and engaging in logic games, are recommended to rebuild sustained thinking abilities and improve overall cognitive health [8].