Memory Getting Worse? Short Video Addiction May Be the Hidden Culprit

The Shocking Reality of Short Video Addiction

A recent study published in "Healthcare" has worried all smartphone users - scientists discovered that short video addiction not only makes people unable to stop scrolling, but may also quietly damage our attention and memory!

This survey of 1,029 Jordanian university students revealed: - **50%** of students had moderate to severe short video addiction - **18.8%** spent over 8 hours daily on their phones - Students with poorer grades and less study time were more prone to addiction - Female students showed significantly higher addiction levels than males

Why Are Short Videos So Addictive?

The "deadly appeal" of short video platforms lies in their carefully designed algorithm traps: - Content lasting just seconds - Infinite scrolling recommendation feeds - Instant like and comment feedback

These designs act like "electronic stimulants" injecting dopamine into the brain, making people want to keep scrolling.

How Do Short Videos Damage Memory?

Attention Depletion Mechanism

Research found that short video addiction indirectly harms memory through "attention depletion."

**Analogy**: Attention acts as the brain's "information gatekeeper," deciding what enters the memory warehouse. But short videos' fragmented bombardment overworks the gatekeeper, causing important information to be missed.

Research Data

- Every 1-point increase in addiction level decreased memory scores by 0.19 points - 31% of this damage came from attention being "drained"

Counterintuitive Finding

Whether you're a "focus master" or "distraction expert," short video addiction equally damages memory. This suggests quitting short videos is more important than just training attention.

Four Practical Coping Strategies

1. Set Screen Time Limits

- Use phone's built-in "screen time" features - Set daily limits for short video apps (e.g., 1 hour) - Automatic lock after time limit

2. Practice Single-Tasking Mode

- No phones during meals - Turn off notifications while studying - Do one thing at a time to rebuild active attention

3. Create Short Video-Free Time Blocks

- Reserve 1-hour "blank periods" daily (e.g., before bed) - Replace video scrolling with music, walks, etc. - Gradually reduce withdrawal symptoms

4. Play Memory Games Instead of Scrolling

- "Grocery List Challenge": Memorize 10 items before shopping, check at checkout - Exercise brain's active encoding ability - Replace passive information consumption habits

Deeper Social Issues

The survey also found: - 73.4% of young people use Instagram for short videos - But only 6% seek professional help for psychological issues - Most choose to suppress feelings or talk to friends

This reminds us that fighting short video addiction requires social support: - Schools can offer "digital decluttering" workshops - Parents should replace criticism with positive activities - Use real-world dopamine to replace virtual pleasure

Key Reminder

Your brain isn't an infinite-capacity hard drive, but a desk needing regular organization. Scrolling short videos is like constantly scattering paper on the desk - even the strongest attention can't handle this chaos.

**Action Recommendations**: - Turn off autoplay features - Reserve time daily for reading physical books - Allow appropriate downtime for memory consolidation

Remember, give memory space to settle, and it will return a clearer future to you.