Have you ever lamented that someone takes hours in the bathroom, even after they are done with their regular ablutions? Well, it turns out that there is a name for this behavior, though there might be varied reasons behind it. Bathroom camping has emerged as a social media sensation during recent months, after users share their experiences on the internet. People now use bathrooms for extended periods beyond their regular activities, to pursue other ‘things’. Let’s dig deeper…What is bathroom campingBathroom camping involves staying inside a bathroom for long periods, without performing its typical bathroom functions. People use bathroom spaces as personal retreats to escape from overwhelming situations, social obligations and mental pressure. People discover bathroom spaces as their own personal sanctuary, which provides them with peaceful moments to breathe, while blocking out external distractions from the outside world. People who engage in bathroom camping activities use their time to browse social media feeds and listen to music, while practicing meditation or spending time in complete silence. The term “bathroom camping” gained widespread popularity during 2025 through TikTok users who shared their personal experiences and viral videos.Why are people bathroom campingPeople use bathroom camping as a method to handle their overwhelming emotions and anxiety, which they experience throughout their daily activities. People find bathrooms to be their only private retreats because they remain unoccupied in areas where homes are crowded, and workplaces and social areas are noisy. The practice serves as a personal time-out for individuals who need to escape from their demanding surroundings, even if for a bit. The essential nature of privacy and personal space for mental health makes bathrooms an excellent choice for people to find solitude. People bring survival kits containing books, snacks and headphones to stay longer in the bathroom. Not only that, they have adopted bathroom camping as a reaction to the excessive digital connections and overwhelming sensory inputs, which characterise modern life.Mental health self-carePeople view bathroom camping as an unusual, yet useful mental health practice which has received positive reception. People can use this practice to activate their nervous system while gaining control over their emotions. People who practice bathroom camping experience a period of uninterrupted time to handle their anxiety, while they block out external stimuli and stop their racing thoughts. The practice of bathroom camping shares similarities with mindfulness practices like meditation and deep breathing, because it helps people achieve mental calmness. It enables people to practice self-care and emotional regulation through its simple and accessible nature, which contrasts with the challenges of taking breaks in today’s society.
Cultural and generational aspectsThe social media platforms TikTok and Instagram have enabled Gen Z and millennial users to share their mental health challenges and coping strategi, s which led to the growth of bathroom camping as a trend. The younger generation differs from previous generations because they share their stress experiences through social media to make mental health issues more acceptable. The bathroom camping content on social media demonstrates how users need private time to escape from digital overload, social demands and work-related stress. The trend demonstrates that basic human requirements for solitude and peace often find resolution through straightforward methods, which technology and fast-paced lives cannot deliver.Potential drawbacksBathroom camping serves as a helpful practice, yet experts emphasise that it should not substitute professional mental health treatment when someone needs it. Spending too much time alone in isolation might indicate that a person is avoiding their problems, or their anxiety is getting worse. Bathrooms lack proper facilities for extended stays which can result in physical discomfort and hygiene-related problems. People who practice bathroom camping need to combine this practice with other wellness techniques, while contacting their support network or mental health professionals when their stress levels become uncontrolled. Taking brief restful breaks serves as a positive practice, yet people should always seek professional help when their problems continue to persist.
Beyond the bathroomBathroom camping extends its practice beyond traditional bathroom spaces, because people find alternative private areas including closets, cars and quiet rooms for their needs. The essential concept involves discovering a temporary space to disconnect from the world, while gaining emotional strength. The practice demonstrates how people need protected areas to create boundaries during times when their environment becomes overwhelming, or when social requirements become too intense. The essential requirement for bathroom camping or any other form of retreat, is to have a private space where one can find solitude.Disclaimer: This article is informational only and not a substitute for medical advice
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