The practice known as 'bed rotting'—spending extended periods in bed, sometimes for days—has gained popularity on social media, particularly among Generation Z. Nearly a quarter of people aged 14 to 30 engage in it, according to the American Academy of Sleep Medicine. On TikTok, influencers promote it as a way to improve mental health.
However, experts at Ohio State University and other healthcare institutions warn of significant health consequences. Dr. Nicole Hollingshead, a clinical assistant professor at Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, highlighted a circular link between depressed mood and inactivity: the more depressed one feels, the less activity they do, which worsens depression. The practice can also lead to poor hygiene and avoidance of responsibilities.
While some benefits exist—such as resting tired muscles and catching up on sleep—experts caution that bed rotting can disrupt the sleep-wake cycle, potentially worsening sleep deprivation. Dr. Anne Marie Morse of Geisinger Health System noted that this cycle regulates heart rate and blood pressure. Moreover, spending excessive time in bed may leave people feeling more drained than refreshed.
The trend has historical roots; in the 19th century, Scots used the phrase 'hurkle durkle' to describe lingering in bed. The modern term 'bed rot' gained traction after a viral tweet from musician Conan Gray. Despite its popularity, experts advise against using bed rotting as a coping mechanism for anxiety or depression, recommending instead mindful rest and unplugging from technology in moderation.
