How doomscrolling causes stress

Running a yard comes with enormous responsibilities.

From staffing challenges and rising costs to tight schedules and the wellbeing of both horses and clients, it’s easy to feel under pressure.

On top of that, in today’s digital world, constantly scrolling through industry news or social media - sometimes called doomscrolling - can add a hidden layer of stress.

It’s natural to keep up with industry news, equestrian trends, and similar businesses. But when your scrolling becomes obsessive, it can trigger a stress response in your brain, even if the news isn’t directly affecting you.

Add in the comparisons we make to other yards, staff setups, or client successes, and the pressure can quickly start to feel overwhelming.

Constant exposure to bad news - whether about staffing shortages, financial pressures, horse welfare issues or the latest social media scandal - can increase anxiety and make day-to-day challenges feel heavier.

Over time, this can impact your decision-making, energy levels, and even your ability to support your team.

Practical ways to protect your mental health

Set boundaries for online activity

Instead of carrying your phone around with you, try leaving it out of reach during yard tasks. Pop it in a locker, a desk drawer or leave it in your car. Even a short amount of scroll-free time can help reduce stress.

Curate what you consume

Algorithms tend to show more of what we interact with, so reading a few bad news stories can quickly turn your feed into a slew of negative content and channels.

Instead, actively follow sources that provide helpful, practical advice or positive inspiration, rather than content that fuels worry or comparison. Unfollow or mute accounts that make you feel upset, angry or stressed.

Take breaks from negative news

It’s important to stay informed, but consuming a constant stream of worrying updates can make challenges feel insurmountable. Turn off push notifications and set a specific time to catch up, rather than checking throughout the day.

Prioritise self-care

Even short moments of mindfulness, deep breathing, or a walk around the yard can help you reset and refocus. Your wellbeing impacts your staff, your horses, and the business overall.

Focus on what you can control

You can’t fix every challenge in the equestrian industry, but you can manage your yard, support your team, and make thoughtful business decisions. Concentrating on small actionable steps can help reduce stress.

Seek support

Talking through pressures with colleagues, industry peers, or a professional can provide perspective and reassurance. EEA members can access our online mental health hub Employers Minds where you’ll find support, advice resources and guidance to help you navigate the challenges of running a business.

Supporting your staff

Your team may be experiencing the same pressures, from social media comparisons to industry news that adds stress. Encouraging healthy digital habits can help.

Simple steps include setting reasonable expectations for checking emails or messages outside work hours, sharing mental wellbeing resources, and creating an environment where staff feel safe talking about stress. Leading by example, by taking breaks from doomscrolling yourself, can make a real difference in fostering a resilient, supported team.

If your grooms are British Grooms Association members they can access the Grooms Minds online hub or the 24 hour mental health helpline.

Small changes make a big difference

Mental wellbeing isn’t a luxury, it’s an essential part of running a successful yard. Setting boundaries for scrolling, managing comparisons, supporting your team, and prioritising self-care may seem small, but over time they can make a huge difference.

Protecting your mental health means staying resilient, thinking clearly, and leading your yard with confidence, even when times are tough.

About the Equestrian Employers Association

The EEA is the go-to resource for yard owners who want to operate professionally, legally, and ethically, while saving time and money. Access a comprehensive choice of online tools, advice, discounts and support for just £49.50 a year.

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