# The Lonely Scroll: Why We're Addicted to Social Media Despite Its Harm

In this opinion piece, Guardian writer Paul Daley examines the paradox of social media addiction, questioning why people continue scrolling despite known harm to mental health. He reflects on the loneliness and emptiness that often accompany the digital habit, adding to discussions about the need for healthier technology use.

**Importance:** 3/5

## Sources

### Health
- [The Guardian Health](https://www.theguardian.com/society/commentisfree/2026/aug/03/social-media-addiction-loneliness) — Mon, 03 Aug 2026 15:00:20 GMT

### Technology
- [Hacker News](https://www.wsj.com/tech/meta-ordered-to-pay-942-million-to-address-harm-to-kids-from-social-media-8ba5aab7) — Fri, 07 Aug 2026 00:06:28 +0000