The impact of bad news on mental health

We live in a world where good news seems to have no place. While the world progresses and improves in many areas, headlines insist on highlighting tragedies, disasters, and crimes, creating a distorted perception of reality. A clear example of this: last year, 56 million commercial flights took place worldwide, yet only one fatal accident was widely reported. How many people heard about the successful flights? Probably none.

This phenomenon is not accidental; it reflects a preference for broadcasting negative events that attract more attention and engagement. But what are the consequences of this for society and individuals?

Anxiety and Intensified Fears

Constant exposure to disturbing news, such as accidents, terrorist attacks, femicides, and other rare events, shapes how we perceive the world. Even though these tragedies are statistically unlikely to affect us directly, their constant repetition in the media creates the illusion that they are imminent.

For instance, a survey by the American Psychological Association (APA) revealed that 77% of Americans consider the nation's future a significant source of stress, while 62% cite global events as contributing factors to their daily anxiety. These statistics highlight how the constant focus on bad news can exacerbate worries and even create new fears.

The Danger of Generalization

Our brains are wired to react more strongly to negative information. This mechanism, essential for our survival in ancient times, has become a trap in the modern world. The result? We believe the world is worse than it really is. Coverage of isolated events, such as plane crashes or natural disasters, can lead to disproportionate phobias. A study by the Safe Travel Institute found that 20% of people with a fear of flying developed this fear after watching news about plane crashes, even though the actual risk is extremely low.

The Impact on Mental Health

The constant consumption of bad news can do more than instill fear. It contributes to a society plagued by anxiety and depression. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that depression and anxiety disorders are the leading causes of disability worldwide. While the media is not the sole culprit, it plays a significant role in keeping audiences in a constant state of alertness and worry.

How to Reverse This Perception?

While the media holds some responsibility, change starts with each of us. Here are some tips to minimize the impact of negative news:

1. Filter the content you consume: Use tools like SensiBlock, which block disturbing news and help create a healthier browsing experience.

2. Focus on concrete data: Instead of relying on sensationalist headlines, look for reliable sources that provide balanced and contextualized information.

3. Seek positive content: Remember that good news exists! Look for stories about scientific advances, acts of kindness, and global achievements.

4. Disconnect regularly: Limit the time you spend consuming news and focus on activities that promote well-being, such as physical exercise or meditation.

Conclusion

The false perception that "the world is a bad place" is amplified by the way the media chooses to report events. Tragedies are emphasized, while everyday successes go unnoticed. This distortion conditions us to live in fear and anxiety, harming our mental health and our outlook on the future.

It's time to change this narrative. While the world has its challenges, it is also full of beauty, progress, and achievements. It is up to us to shift the focus and seek a balance that preserves our mental health and our hope. After all, reality is much more positive than the headlines suggest.