We don’t have to be physically close to a disaster to be impacted by it psychologically. Anxiety and even post-traumatic stress symptoms can result from secondary exposure to disturbing content. And nowadays, our social media feeds are full of it.
So is social media causing us even more harm? Can we navigate the good and the bad?
Taking breaks seems like a great idea, especially with so many anxiety-provoking events happening.
Yet, social media feeds curated right can also be a source of hope and belonging. Sharing awareness, witnessing good deeds, or even playing our part by sharing a meme that will put a smile on someone’s face, may help us create hope.
How do you feel scrolling your feeds lately? Is social media causing you more anxiety or giving you hope?
Really interesting points.
Social media as you quite righty assert definitely seems to be something of a mixed blessing. I think social media might act as a lens to the deepest neuroses. If we approach social media from a place of anxiety, we may find that anxiety increasing as our minds filter only those aspects that feed and nourish the anxiety helping it grow.
It's no doubt that we may learn, and be informed from social media that is if we can steer clear from misinformation.
Before an individual approaches social media, I would suggest that a course of mindfulness or CBT take place so that one's mind seeks out that which will inform while filtering those aspects which offer nothing but the chance to feed neuroses.
We can't avoid bad news, as unfortunately the old adage goes 'If it bleeds, it leads. But if we can achieve a certain level of equanimity then we may find ourselves better prepared to face tragedy.
Although I think the media should be more responsible and present positive media, in the shape of new discoveries, medical and technological that remind us of the beauty of human endeavour.
Personally, social media contents make me anxious. I see little to no hope whenever I scroll through my newsfeed. For a healthy mind, we should limit our time on social media. Thank you