Bed rotting is a trendy activity, or should we say lack of activity, that is taking Gen Z by storm. But, is it helpful or harmful for our mental health?

Bed rotting is slang for staying in bed and not being productive for hours or days on end. It usually entails endless scrolling on phones, binge watching TV, or just staring into space

The term bed rotting started gaining popularity in 2023. Gen Z claimed it as an act of self-care that allows people to rest and reset. While that is true, it can also worsen a person’s mental health.

It can isolate them from others, ruin their sleep schedule, and hinder their motivation.

Mental health director at LSU’s Student health Center Raime Thibodeaux says there is a fine line between self-care and self-destruction when it comes to bed rotting. She can support bed rotting for an afternoon, but not a weekend.

“If we stay in bed all day for a long duration, things like excessive amounts of sleep, excessively staying in bed, that can be either a sign or symptom of depression. Or if you don’t already have depression, but you do those behaviors it can actually contribute to depression,” said Thibodeaux.

If you’re struggling with depression don’t hesitate to contact the Student Health Center for help.