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The trend is for couples to spend hours together under their duvets – known as ‘bed dates’ – rather than going out together. This is not for sleeping, but for scrolling on their phone or watching TV for hours.
According to Birmingham-based clinical psychologist Dr Lalitaa Suglani, author of High-Functioning Anxiety A 5-step Guide To Calming The Inner Panic, the trend is a result of people feeling ‘overwhelmed’ by the pressure and fast-paced pace of life.
She told FruitySlots.com: ‘The trend of ‘bed rot’ stems from societal burnout, with many overwhelmed by constant pressure and the fast pace of modern life.
“We are in a society that glorifies productivity, which leaves people exhausted. This trend reflects a growing need for escape and tranquility in an overstimulated world. It is also the place where people take refuge in simple, passive activities’
And the activity can affect your romantic relationship in a negative way, she added.
She said: ‘It can reduce the level of intimacy with your partner and without trying new things together, the couple can start to feel ‘stuck’ and ‘bored’ in their relationship.’
Dr. Suglani continued: “For couples, ‘bed rotting’ together can initially feel like quality relaxation, providing an opportunity to bond in a relaxing environment. However, if it becomes a habit, there is a risk of creating complacency in the relationship.
‘Romantic relationships thrive on variety, shared experiences and growth. An 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 bedtime replaces more active and engaging date ideas, “it can ultimately reduce the excitement and intimacy in a relationship.”
“Shared adventures, trying new things and interacting with others give new energy to relationships,” the psychologist explained.
“Without these, couples can feel stuck or bored, which can impact long-term connection and fulfillment.”
Dr. Suglani shared her top three tips to combat bed rot.
‘Bed rot’ is becoming an increasingly common activity among couples, but can have a negative effect on relationships (stock image)
1. Set boundaries
She said: ‘Setting boundaries is important. Setting aside specific times for bed rot, such as limiting it to a few hours on a lazy weekend, will help prevent it from becoming an unhealthy habit.
‘You should encourage a balanced routine that includes both rest and active engagement with the world.
“Boundaries ensure that rest does not turn into avoidance or escape from life’s responsibilities.”
2. Create small achievable goals
“For those who find it difficult to break the bed rot cycle, it is essential to start with small, achievable goals,” the psychologist said.
Spending too much time ‘bed rot’ can reduce intimacy with your partner, says a psychologist (stock image)
‘Setting daily tasks such as getting out of bed for a walk, practicing mindfulness or engaging in social activities can change the pattern.’
3. Build a routine
Her third and final tip is that building a routine can help people break out of the vicious cycle of bed rot.
She explained, “Building a routine that includes active self-care and time limits for passive activities helps create balance.
“You quickly get out of the cycle of staying home and watching the world go by.”