Why Being Too Informed Can Be a Bad Thing
We live in the age of information, and we’re always being informed about the latest news and happenings from our friends. But is that a bad thing? Consuming too much news, particularly negative news, can be a bad thing, and here are a few reasons why.
The World Feels Like It’s Falling Apart
The news loves to parade negative stories around. From murders, facial recognition software, to wildfires, it feels like the sky is falling every day. While there are plenty of legitimate issues that we face as humans, there always have been. We’re just more easily informed of everything.
Outrage Fuels Everything
The news media likes to get you riled up, showing each story in a way that makes you angry. From putting political parties against each other to showing all the injustices in the world, the news makes you angry, and you may snap on some people.
Again, there is a lot to be angry about, but a cycle of outrage is not productive, and it’s just going to make you toxic.
It Keeps You Up
Every worry you have about the world can keep you up at night. You may not be able to rest because of worry, fear, and anger. As a result, you may look at your phone, which can make it even harder to fall asleep. Not getting enough sleep can lead to some serious health effects, and it’s important that you realize this before it’s too late. Make sure you spend a couple hours away from social media before you go to bed.
It’s Hard to Tell What’s Real
You have news sources coming from all different viewpoints, and some of them may come from sources that are fake or designed to make you angry by removing some facts from the story to fit their narrative. In a way, reality through the Internet feels like a choose your own adventure book, as you can find sources that agree with any viewpoint you may have. Even the most skeptical of folks may have a hard time separating truth from fiction in this world.
It Can Give You FOMO
Besides news, keeping up with your friends can give you the fear of missing out, or FOMO. You may be checking your feed constantly to see if there’s something new going on, or if there’s an event you should go to. You may spend a good amount of time envious about your friends doing more than you, and this could lead to depression.
Some Ways You Can Help Yourself
If you're aware of the effects of media consumption, that’s a good first step. Here are some other ways you can work to improve yourself.
Moderation is Key
Some people will say to stop consuming news altogether and to get off social media, but this can be a bit dangerous as well. There are many things that you should be informed about, and you should keep up with friends. The end goal is moderation.
Consume Positive News Too
Reading some positive, uplifting news can help to balance out the effects of negative news. Again, consuming too much positive news can warp your view of the world, but by having a balance, you can do better.
Check Everything
Before you get mad at a news story, read all sides. Is there something that this article isn’t telling you that makes you more outraged? Is the story even real? If the story is fake or misreported, then you should not listen to that publication.
Seek Help!
If you can’t stop consuming news or social media, then you may have an addiction. It’s important you handle this addiction by speaking to a therapist or counselor. Instead of using your phone to consume news, why not use it to speak to a licensed therapist? Online therapy can get you help without having to leave your home. Click here to get started:
The news is getting more and more confusing, and at some point, you need to take a step back and work on yourself. Stay informed, but stay informed smartly and make sure that you’re looking out for your well-being in the process.
About the AuthorMarie Miguel has been a writing and research expert for nearly a decade, covering a variety of health-related topics. Currently, she is contributing to the expansion and growth of a free online mental health resource with BetterHelp.com. With an interest and dedication to addressing stigmas associated with mental health, she continues to specifically target subjects related to anxiety and depression.
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