In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, we asked experts from UC San Diego to share their insights on six trending wellness strategies making waves on social media. Here’s what you should know before giving them a try.

Brainrot: Is Mindless Scrolling a Healthy Escape?
Oxford’s 2024 Word of the Year wasn’t something aspirational it was “brainrot,” a term capturing the countless hours spent watching oddly satisfying, often pointless content. Think baby hippos like Moo Deng, ASMR soap-cutting clips, or hyper-organized pantries. But is this kind of digital zoning-out just harmless fun, or could it actually affect your brain?

“The term ‘brainrot’ might seem humorous, but consuming constant, high-stimulus content can rewire how the brain develops and responds,” explains Dr. Ekta Patel, assistant professor of psychiatry. “Over time, it can dull the brain’s natural reward system, making everyday tasks like reading, working, or socializing feel dull in comparison.”

That said, Patel notes that not all screen time is harmful. “Watching feel-good or soothing content can be a helpful way to unwind in moderation. The concern is when it becomes a primary coping mechanism, leading to emotional avoidance or dissociation.”

Bottom line: Enjoy your cute animal clips, but be mindful. “The key is intention,” says Patel. “Are you recharging or numbing out? That difference determines whether it’s a healthy break or a hindrance to emotional growth.”

Cortisol ‘Cocktails’: Can a Trendy Drink Actually Lower Stress?
Social media is currently obsessed with the so-called cortisol “cocktail” a mix of orange juice, coconut water, sea salt, and magnesium touted as a quick way to reduce stress hormones and rebalance the nervous system. But does the science stack up?

“These drinks are being marketed as a simple fix for chronic stress, but there’s limited evidence supporting that claim,” says Dr. Jodi Nagelberg, assistant clinical professor of medicine and an endocrinologist. “It might be hydrating and taste great, but calling it a cure for burnout or adrenal fatigue is a stretch.”

The takeaway: While the ingredients may support hydration and overall wellness, there’s no magic formula in a glass that can regulate your stress hormones long-term. Real stress management still comes down to sleep, nutrition, movement, and mental health care.

Source: https://www.universityofcalifornia.edu/news/do-tiktoks-viral-life-hacks-actually-help-your-mental-health