One of the many TikTok trends to gain popularity in 2024 is bed rotting – but what is it – and why are so many people doing it?
The trend sees couples opting to spend hours with each other under their duvet – known as ‘bed rotting dates’, instead of going out together. This is not to sleep, but to scroll on their phones or watch TV for hours on end.
According to Birmingham-based clinical psychologist Dr Lalitaa Suglani, the author of High-Functioning Anxiety A 5-step Guide To Calming The Inner Panic, the trend is a result of people feeling ‘overwhelmed’ with the pressures and fast pace of life.
She told FruitySlots.com: ‘The “bed rotting” trend stems from societal burnout, where many are overwhelmed by constant pressures and the fast pace of modern life.
‘We’re in a society that glorifies productivity, leaving people exhausted. This trend reflects a growing need for an escape and rest in an overstimulated world. It’s also where people are seeking refuge in simple, passive activities’
And the activity, can influence your romantic relationship in negative ways, she added.
She said: ‘It can reduce levels of intimacy with your partner and without trying new things together – the couple could begin to feel “stuck” and “bored” in their relationship.’
Dr Suglani continued: ‘For couples, “bed rotting” together can initially feel like quality downtime, offering a chance to bond in a relaxed setting. However, if it becomes a habit, it risks creating complacency in the relationship.
‘Romantic relationships thrive on variety, shared experiences, and growth. Over-reliance on passive time together can lead to stagnation, with couples missing out on deeper emotional and intimate connection and new experiences.’
She added that if bed rotting replaces more active and engaging date ideas, ‘it can eventually reduce the excitement and intimacy in a relationship’.
‘Shared adventures, trying new things, and socialising with others bring fresh energy to relationships,’ the psychologist explained.
‘Without these, couples may feel stuck or bored, which can affect long-term connection and fulfilment.’
Dr Suglani shared her three top tips to overcome bed rotting.
‘Bed rotting’ is becoming an increasingly common activity among couples, but it can have a negative effect on relationships (stock image)
1. Set boundaries
She said: ‘Setting boundaries is important. Allocating specific times for bed rotting – like limiting it to a few hours on a lazy weekend – helps prevent it from becoming an unhealthy habit.
‘You need to encourage a balanced routine that includes both rest and active engagement in the world.
‘Boundaries ensure that rest doesn’t turn into avoidance or escape from life’s responsibilities.’
2. Create small achievable goals
‘For those finding it hard to break the bed rotting cycle, starting with small, achievable goals is essential,’ said the psychologist.
Spending too much time ‘bed rotting’ can reduce levels of intimacy with your partner, says a psychologist (stock image)
‘Setting daily tasks like getting out of bed for a walk, practicing mindfulness, or engaging in social activities can shift the pattern.’
3. Build a routine
Her third and final tip is that people can help get out of the cycle of bed rotting by building a routine.
She explained: ‘Building a routine that includes active self-care and time limits for passive activities helps create balance.
‘You will soon step out of that cycle of staying at home and watching the world go by.’
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