Are News Alerts WRECKING Mental Health?

A recent Reuters Institute study finds that constant news alerts may heighten stress and reduce trust in media, prompting discussions on whether users should become more selective about notifications.

At a Glance

• Reuters Institute researchers surveyed over 90,000 people globally and found that 60% felt news notifications were “too frequent,” with fatigue linked to higher stress and anxiety markers
• Users who disabled alerts reported improved well-being and a greater ability to focus, especially among younger adults
• Excessive alerts were also tied to declining trust in news media, as constant interruptions made users doubt accuracy and sensationalism
• Many respondents called for personalized settings, such as topic filters and timing windows, rather than blanket notifications
• Tech platforms like Apple and Google are reportedly exploring new “news digest” features to reduce alert volume in response to user concerns

Why News Alerts May Backfire

The Reuters Institute study notes that while alerts aim to keep users informed, their frequency can backfire. Researchers found that constant interruptions trigger negative emotional responses and cognitive overload. One researcher said the barrage of headlines can cause users to perceive instability and uncertainty even when topics are unrelated.

Watch a report: Reuters study: too many news alerts stress users.

Finding Balance in a Digital Age

Experts urge a middle path: rather than disabling news entirely, users should customize notifications—choosing topics, sources, and time windows that fit their needs. For news organizations, this could mean offering curated daily summaries rather than constant breaking-news pings.

With platforms like Apple and Google testing “news digest” features and personalized alert settings, a shift toward more user-centric, mindful media consumption may soon take hold—empowering users to stay informed without sacrificing well-being.