A self care trend called “bed rotting” is gaining popularity on TikTok. It encourages people to spend extended time in bed doing anything but sleeping. That includes binge watching shows, eating snacks or scrolling through their phones. While some say it is a way to rest and reset, others warn it might be damaging to both body and mind.
Here is a breakdown of what the trend involves and what health experts want people to know.
What is bed rotting?
Unlike a nap or restful sleep, bed rotting involves staying in bed for long periods of time while remaining awake. People who participate say they use the time to zone out, often watching TV, playing games or browsing social media.
Supporters view it as a form of self care. A recent survey found:
49 percent of Gen Z say they engage in bed rotting41 percent of millennials report doing the same
Many describe it as a response to burnout and the pressure to always be productive.
Why some believe it helps
Mental health professionals say short stretches of time in bed can help reduce stress and allow the body to slow down.
The trend appeals to people who feel emotionally and physically drained, offering what they see as a guilt free rest period.
When resting turns into avoidance
Doctors and therapists say the benefits of bed rotting depend on the duration and reason behind it.
Too much time in bed can lead to:
Poor blood circulation, which can raise the risk of blood clots and strokeDisrupted sleep patterns, as the brain may begin to associate the bed with being awakeIncreased risk of depression and anxiety, especially if bed rotting becomes an escape from responsibilities
“It becomes avoidance,” said M Clark Canine, MA, Licensed Mental Health Counselor. “If you are doing it because of anxiety or depression, then you are not coping. You are hiding.”
Signs you may be overdoing it
Health professionals say occasional bed rotting is not necessarily a problem, but it can become one if it starts to interfere with daily life.
Red flags include:
Leaving dirty dishes or trash in your roomSkipping meals, work or personal hygieneFeeling more exhausted or emotionally drained after staying in bed
If this becomes a pattern, experts recommend taking small steps to re engage with your routine.
“Take one step toward getting that thing done,” said Canine.
How to recharge without overdoing it
If you are thinking about trying the trend, health professionals suggest keeping a few things in mind:
Set a firm time limit, such as one afternoon or morningGet up and move every hour, even brieflyAsk yourself how you feel afterward: do you feel rested or worse than before
Experts say the goal is to recharge, not to check out completely.