Young people in Nizhny Novgorod are choosing psychiatric hospitals instead of vacations.

      October 21, 2025, 19:00 — Society

      Among Generation Z an unusual trend is gaining momentum — voluntary trips to psychiatric hospitals for rest, disconnection from gadgets, and combatting burnout. Nizhny Novgorod zoomers call it "durking" and view hospitalization as a way to reboot rather than as real treatment.

      A representative of Nizhny Novgorod healthcare, Alexey Nikonov, noted on his Telegram channel that the new generation increasingly turns to psychiatric inpatient facilities not because of serious diagnoses but to relieve stress, take a break from social networks, and spend time in silence.

      One of the main "advantages" teenagers cite of this approach is limited access to phones — only 30 minutes a day. The rest of the time they spend playing board games, drawing, and engaging in face-to-face interaction. This creates a digital detox effect that more and more young people are seeking.

      On the one hand, specialists note a positive trend. Young people have begun to recognize the importance of psychological support and are not ashamed to seek help. This is especially relevant in an environment of constant stress and a fast pace of life.

      However, psychiatrists and psychologists warn that a psychiatric hospital should not be treated as a sanatorium or a wellness center.

      "Frivolously seeking 'free rest' can have a psychiatric record that will close the doors to many professions for years to come and deprive the patient of the right to drive and to own firearms," Nikonov said.

      It was previously reported that supervision of patients with addictions and mental disorders will be increased in the Nizhny Novgorod region.

      NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" has a Telegram channel. Subscribe to stay informed of major events, exclusive content, and timely updates.

      Copyright © 1999–2025 NIA "Nizhny Novgorod". A hyperlink to NIA "Nizhny Novgorod" is required when reprinting. This resource may contain 18+ materials.