The Daily News – June 9, 2025

If we’re being honest here, sometimes life can be a little overwhelming, can’t it? We’re constantly bombarded with noise, crowds, distractions, social media, our phones, and the latest trends. It can all be a little much sometimes, but could listening to someone else whisper or even chewing be the solution to calming your nerves? Well, some people, especially younger generations think so. Today in the Daily News, we’re digging into the rising popularity of A SMR content and why many young people depend on it. In fact, the term ASMR was one of the top searched on YouTube in 2024. A new report from the UK based Behavioral Insights agency revealing reality found that younger adults, particularly those under 45, are much more likely to feel overstimulated by in-person interactions and public spaces. The study surveyed over 2000 adults and found a strong correlation between age and sensitivity to external stimuli. Nearly half of those age 25 to 34 reported feeling overwhelmed in noisy places like shopping malls and train stations. Younger adults were also far more likely to prefer chatting online over face-to-face interactions and to work alone rather than in social settings. Now, with the rise of technology use, phones, social isolation, and social media, this really isn’t a huge surprise. What is surprising is how many have turned to ASMR as a solution? And just for clarification here, ASMR are those oddly satisfying videos of whispering voices, squishing slime, or gentle tapping for a sense of calm. So do these videos really help? Well, it turns out it could actually be a part of the problem. Experts suggest it’s not just about relaxation, it’s about avoiding the messiness of real life human connection. Some researchers are even questioning if ASMR is becoming a way to pacify young people who are withdrawing from the challenges of social interaction. While ASMR can be a quick and effective stress reliever, some psychologists worry it doesn’t teach real coping skills. One professor explain that ASMR helps people feel better in the moment, but it doesn’t necessarily give them the tools to manage stress in everyday life. With research showing that young people are spending less time out in the real world and reporting higher levels of anxiety than previous generations, the big question remains is ASMR helping people cope or just making it easier to avoid the real world. So what are your thoughts on listening to ASMR? Let us know in the comments below, and if you found this information helpful, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and hit that notification bell for more updates. As always, thank you so much for joining us on the Daily News.