If you want to join the discussions in the Daily Dose of Reddit community, the overarching rule is simple: Keep it chill. However, you’re also not allowed to post selfies, spam, spoilers, or overly offensive “edgy” content. According to its profile section, it’s a subreddit with “fewer dumb rules than other humor subs.”
Content from subreddits like this provides a form of escapism from the toxic parts of the internet. It allows users to forget the doom and gloom of current events by offering “mindless” entertainment.
According to psychologist Dr. Ashley Olivine, it’s natural for people to seek escapism as a way to either cope with traumatic situations or memories, manage challenges, and relieve stress.
Dr. Olivine emphasizes that escapism through daydreaming and online scrolling can be beneficial but requires intentionality and moderation. As she points out, doing it in excess has its drawbacks, which can affect a person’s quality of life.
“Escapism may also cause withdrawal from social relationships, marked by friends or family noting decreased connection or missed social events,” Dr. Olivine wrote.
Regarding the benefits of escapism in one’s life, Dr. Olivine says it depends on the chosen activity. She urges engaging in physical activity and getting lost in a book, for example, rather than spending too much time on social media or doing random shopping sprees that may lead to overspending.
Dr. Olivine also noted that it is important to determine whether your chosen form of escapism is healthy by considering your motivation for doing it.
“Exercise, such as running, is a healthy form of escapism if your goals are to increase positive emotions and promote well-being. Exercise as an unhealthy form of escapism might involve doing so as a form of punishment.”
