Bed rotting is a behavior known to be a sign of depression[medical citation needed], where someone stays in bed during waking hours for large periods of time. This can range from most of the day to an entire week without engaging in daily activities and chores.
In February 2024, Dictionary.com announced that it added "bed rotting" along with more than 1,700 new or updated definitions to reflect new words or definitions in society. It was defined as "the practice of spending many hours in bed during the day, often with snacks or an electronic device, as a voluntary retreat from activity or stress".[1]
Bed rotting can make the person not clean their rooms, not go to bathrooms to defecate or urinate, and even not go get food. When the bed rotting last for weeks, it spawns the possibility of insects and bugs infesting the room.[citation needed]
Background
A person using their laptop in bed
Many people who partake in bed rotting commonly spend their time on their smartphone or reading a book.[2][3][4][5][6] While some people use it as a way to recover mental health and combat burnout, bed rotting can move from a way to rest, to a serious issue, which can lead to avoidance going outside, socializing, or responsibilities.[7]
The trend has gained traction on social media, where users share their "bed rotting" experiences. Platforms like TikTok have popularized this behavior with a 2024 survey showing that nearly a quarter of Generation Z surveyed reported staying in bed for a day or more to relax or use devices.[8]
Response
Some observers have interpreted this as a reaction to stress and or anxiety.[9][10][11]Lifehacker has described bed rotting as "an aspect of JOMO".[12] They also say that "while bed rotting can benefit some people in the short-term, it can become concerning if it lasts for more than one or two days".[13]
See also
Bed rest– Medical treatment involving resting in bed
↑Celmer, Lynn (2024-08-21). "'Bed rotting' tops TikTok trends". American Academy of Sleep Medicine – Association for Sleep Clinicians and Researchers. Retrieved 2025-04-14.
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