May is Mental Health Awareness Month, a time to focus on the importance of overall mental health and well-being. This year, Mental Health America’s theme is “Where to Start: Mental Health in a Changing World.”
In a world that is constantly evolving, one factor that can negatively impact mental health is news consumption habits. The 24-hour news cycle can seem impossible to avoid in today’s fast-paced media climate. We are bombarded with dramatic news coverage and endless clickbait, which has more of an impact on mental health than we may realize.
According to a survey by Grow Therapy, 99.6% of therapists said watching or reading the news can have a negative impact on mental health. People who belong to the BIPOC or LGBTQ communities are even more vulnerable.
How does negative news coverage impact mental health?
- Stress response: Watching upsetting news footage can trigger the fight-or-flight response. This releases adrenaline and cortisol, hormones that cause physical symptoms of anxiety like rapid heart rate, shallow breathing, and upset stomach.
- Increased anxiety and depression: Studies have shown that people experience increased symptoms of anxiety and depression after consuming news for just 14 minutes. These symptoms are worse when people feel they have no control over the situations they are hearing about.
- Relying on social media can drive addictive behavior: Social media can be a breeding ground for negativity, with clickbait headlines and algorithms designed to keep you coming back for more. This constant barrage of negativity can be addictive and contribute to anxiety and depression.
How can you protect your mental health from the news?
- Limit screen time: Be mindful of how much time you spend consuming news, especially on social media.
- Seek out positive stories: Balance negative news with positive stories to create a more balanced view of the world.
- Focus on solutions: Look for stories about people who are working to make a positive difference.
- Take breaks: Give yourself time away from the news to relax and de-stress.
Get Help from Mental Health Professionals
At Oaks Integrated Care, we understand the challenges of living in a constantly changing world. Our team of experienced professionals can provide you with the support you need to improve your mental health and well-being. We offer a variety of services, such as therapy, medication management, and support groups designed to give individuals the opportunity to make healthy choices and stabilize symptoms of illness. To learn more about services or schedule an appointment, take the first step and call our Access Center at 1-800-963-3377.
