I’m feeling similarly this year too. There’s nothing wrong with HN as it is but it’s getting a bit trendy and a bit faddy for me and like OP i also feel drawn into responding to rubbish and wasting time.

Perhaps the adult decision is to just disengage and go do something else instead. Problem is fear of missing out but honestly the arrival time between gems seem to be growing exponentially bigger.

lobste.rs would probably welcome you if you're not already there. It's the cycle I guess.

edit: I just noticed that he said he won't be reading or responding. I feel like I've lost one of my own now.