More young people, especially those from Gen Z, are finding solace in an unusual form of escape known as “bathroom camping.” This trend involves individuals retreating to bathrooms not just for a toilet break but to breathe, check TikTok, or simply enjoy some quiet time away from the chaos of life.
Gaining popularity online, bathroom camping has been highlighted as a surprising self-care strategy. According to a report by The New York Post, many TikTok users have revealed that this practice allows them to recharge and enjoy solitary moments.
Why Bathroom Camping Is More Than Just a Toilet Break
For countless individuals, the bathroom serves as the only space where they can truly be alone, free from demands, distractions, and judgment. In one viral TikTok video, user Hendo explains, “Every time something gets overstimulating, whether I’m at a party or even just at home, I go to the bathroom to refresh.” He describes spending hours in the bathroom without engaging in anything specific—just time to think.
“There’s nothing going on in the bathroom. No windows. Just me and me,” he adds, referring to it as a mental detox. Hendo even encourages others to “invest in bathroom time” as a means to decompress.
The trend has resonated with many, as The New York Post reports thousands of commenters expressing their shared experiences. “Omg I thought it was just me,” one user commented. Another added, “My bathroom is my comfort space – the first thing I check when I move.”
Is Bathroom Camping a Healthy Coping Mechanism or a Warning Sign?
While many see bathroom camping as a calming retreat, others warn of deeper underlying issues. Some TikTok users have shared that they used bathrooms as a safe haven during difficult childhoods. One individual recounted hiding there during parental disputes because their room lacked a lock.
Additionally, several users discussed how this practice helps manage PTSD, social anxiety, or panic attacks, with some even mentioning overnight stays in the restroom during high-stress periods. Experts suggest this behavior may indicate underlying mental health struggles, as mentioned in The New York Post.
Psychologist Cynthia Vinney stated in an article for Psycle Health that extended time spent in the shower or bathroom can sometimes point to symptoms of depression. “It may indicate underlying concerns,” she explains.
Mixed Reactions to Bathroom Camping
However, not all feedback surrounding bathroom camping has been positive. Individuals urgently needing access to restrooms have voiced frustration over stalls being occupied for non-bathroom purposes. “If you’re not using it and someone knocks, please let us in,” one commenter pleaded on TikTok. Others argue that lingering too long can be inconsiderate, particularly in shared spaces at work.
As bathroom camping continues to trend, it emphasizes the balance between personal retreat and consideration for others in communal settings. This post aims to inform readers about the complexities surrounding bathroom camping and the nuanced attitudes young people hold toward mental health and self-care.
