Jun 8, 2023
The constant flow of information in today’s world comes at a high cost to mental health. Staying informed has never been easier—or more overwhelming. Between TV, social media, traditional media outlets, and news websites, we are constantly bombarded with updates. This overload is further amplified by the 24-hour news cycle that never seems to stop.In this article we will talk about this evil that makes our society sick.
A recent survey by Grow Therapy involving 266 therapists revealed an alarming statistic: 99.6% of respondents stated that news consumption can negatively impact mental health. This includes increased stress, anxiety, and even depression. While staying informed is essential, the overconsumption of news, particularly negative content, raises serious concerns about its effects on well-being.
The Mental Health Toll of News
The current state of the world presents significant challenges, and the news is often at the center of this stress. With constant access to updates, we often feel that even when we’re not actively seeking news, it finds us—whether through sensationalist headlines on social media or push notifications. Violence, tragedies, inflation, climate change, and political conflicts are recurring themes that keep adults in a constant state of alertness.
Here are some key findings on how certain topics are major stressors for American adults:
75% are concerned about violence and crime.
73% cite mass shootings as one of the biggest stress factors.
76% feel the nation’s future is a constant worry.
83% identify inflation as a top source of anxiety.
62% point to racial issues as a significant stressor.
These topics are often repeated endlessly in the media. For many, the news becomes even more impactful when it hits close to home. Parents, for example, may feel heightened anxiety about school shootings, while those who lost loved ones to COVID-19 might relive their trauma when faced with pandemic updates.
The effects go beyond emotions; our bodies respond as well. Consuming negative news triggers the sympathetic nervous system, releasing hormones like adrenaline and cortisol. This leads to increased heart rate, blood pressure, and symptoms such as sweating, rapid breathing, and muscle tension. Prolonged exposure to such stressors can result in chronic anxiety and, in some cases, depression.
How News Affects Mood
The constant exposure to negative content can lead to growing anxiety and hyperawareness of the world’s dangers. This creates a sense of helplessness and hopelessness, especially for individuals already battling depression. News often amplifies fears—sometimes irrational ones—by repeating images and stories of rare but traumatic events like natural disasters or terrorist attacks. While statistically unlikely, these situations appear more imminent due to the way they’re presented.
Moreover, the media tends to focus on the negative, creating an impression that the world is dominated by tragedies. This can exacerbate depressive symptoms, including sadness, loss of interest, sleep and appetite disturbances, irritability, and even thoughts of death. The relentless repetition of such content keeps people in a heightened state of alertness, preventing them from relaxing or focusing on the positive aspects of life.
Signs That News May Be Affecting Your Mental Health
If you find yourself feeling more anxious, stressed, or overwhelmed after consuming news, it may be time to reassess your habits. Common symptoms include:
Anxiety: excessive worry, tension, trouble concentrating, and difficulty sleeping.
Depression: feelings of emptiness, hopelessness, fatigue, and changes in eating or sleeping patterns.
Specific signs related to news consumption might include feelings of restlessness, fear of leaving home, or heightened vigilance about your surroundings. These indicators suggest that the news may be exacerbating your stress, and it’s necessary to adjust your approach.
Watching vs. Reading the News: Which Is Worse?
While both formats can be harmful, watching the news is often more intense due to graphic imagery, such as scenes of violence or disasters. These visuals leave little to the imagination and can trigger stronger emotional reactions. On the other hand, reading the news can be an equally immersive habit, as people tend to follow links and fall into “rabbit holes” of information, prolonging exposure to distressing content.
Tips for Consuming News in a Healthier Way
Although avoiding the news entirely is almost impossible, you can adopt strategies to protect your mental health:
Limit your exposure: Set specific times to check the news and avoid notifications throughout the day. Small steps can lead to more mindful consumption.
Identify your triggers: Understand which types of news affect you the most and try to avoid those topics if possible.
Use filtering tools: Tools like Sensiblock help block disturbing content, allowing for a more peaceful browsing experience.
Practice self-care: Techniques like deep breathing, meditation, and regular breaks can help reduce stress levels after consuming news.
Think rationally: Remember that news is often sensationalized to grab attention. Reframe your perspective to focus on what’s within your control.
Take action: If a specific topic ignites your passion, channel that energy into action. Volunteering or supporting organizations addressing these issues can provide a sense of empowerment.
Ultimately, protecting your mental health should be your priority. Consuming news mindfully is a powerful way to stay informed without sacrificing your well-being. If you find yourself facing significant emotional challenges, don’t hesitate to seek professional support. Your mind deserves peace.