In our rapidly evolving digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives. While it offers unparalleled connectivity and access to information, it also has a darker side that can profoundly impact our mental health. This week, I want to explore how social media can guide you down a dark path, inundating you with negativity and potentially exacerbating conditions such as Complex Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (CPTSD) and PTSD. Drawing from a recent event – a distressing incident at Manchester Airport involving a police officer – I will discuss how social media controls what you watch and how you can avoid falling into a constant negative narrative. Finally, I will emphasise the importance of reconnecting with nature as a potent antidote to the digital gloom, especially for emergency service workers.
The Allure and Perils of Social Media
Social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram are designed to capture our attention. They offer a constant stream of updates, news, and personal stories that keep us scrolling for hours. This relentless engagement is driven by sophisticated algorithms that personalise content to our preferences, aiming to maximise the time we spend on these platforms.
I have always been careful about what I look at when on social media, balancing a few news stories with entertaining, funny stories and jokes. However, due to a one-sided news article discrediting police over the weekend, I found myself getting sucked into reading numerous reports and replies. For a few days, I was led into a constant negative narrative about this story, and my media feed was becoming more and more right-wing. I even saw misreported events about demonstrations. I suddenly recognised what was happening. I took a step back and realised how powerful and manipulative the algorithms can be, and how they can impact your mental health. I have since reset myself and looked more for the fun, happy stuff the world wide web has to offer, reducing my ‘doom-scrolling’.
It is important to understand how little control you have about what information you receive from social media, and it is crucial to step back and recognise what is important – you and your family.
The Impact on Mental Health
CPTSD and PTSD are conditions that arise from prolonged exposure to traumatic events. They share many symptoms, but Complex PTSD includes additional issues such as difficulties in emotional regulation, negative self-perception, and challenges in maintaining relationships. For individuals with these conditions, the negative content pervasive on social media can serve as a constant trigger, exacerbating their symptoms and impeding their recovery.
- Increased Anxiety and Stress: Exposure to negative news and events can heighten feelings of anxiety and stress. For someone with CPTSD or PTSD, this can amplify existing fears and anxieties, making it harder to manage their condition.
- Emotional Numbing: Overexposure to distressing content can lead to emotional numbing, a common symptom of Complex PTSD. This numbing serves as a defence mechanism, but it also prevents individuals from experiencing positive emotions and connecting with others.
- Negative Thought Patterns: Social media can reinforce negative thought patterns. For instance, repeatedly seeing violent or unjust events can lead to a belief that the world is a dangerous and hostile place, deepening feelings of hopelessness and despair.
- Isolation and Loneliness: While social media connects us virtually, it can also foster a sense of isolation. Comparing oneself to the curated lives of others can exacerbate feelings of inadequacy and loneliness, particularly for those already struggling with low self-esteem
The Algorithmic Trap
Understanding how social media algorithms work is crucial to recognising why we are often presented with negative content. These algorithms are designed to prioritise content that generates strong emotional reactions, as this content is more likely to be shared and commented on, driving engagement. Unfortunately, negative content, such as anger-inducing news stories or sensationalised accounts of tragic events, tends to elicit stronger reactions than positive or neutral content.
The algorithms and social media platforms elevate stories that generate the greatest responses. Negative emotional issues always trigger a response and divisive comments. We need to make a change. Take time to balance social media by commenting on the good lighthearted stuff to raise its algorithms! I actually host an Instagram page #Rik_Dude1 for a ‘Dad joke escape’ from the daily gloom.
Let the super A.I. computers know that Humans can get along and love each other without being intolerant and divisive.
Breaking Free from the Negative Narrative
To avoid being drawn into this vortex of negativity, it is essential to adopt mindful and proactive strategies. Here are some steps you can take:
- Curate Your Feed: Actively follow accounts and pages that promote positivity, inspiration, and mental health awareness. Unfollow or mute accounts that consistently share negative, unbalanced or distressing content.
- Limit Screen Time: Set specific times for checking social media and stick to them. Avoid using social media first thing in the morning or right before bed, as this can set a negative tone for your day or disturb your sleep.
- Engage Critically: Approach social media content with a critical mind. Question the sources of information and be wary of sensationalist news. Look for balanced perspectives and avoid jumping to conclusions based on a single piece of content.
- Seek Real-World Connections: Prioritise face-to-face interactions over virtual ones. Spend time with friends and family, engage in community activities, and foster relationships that offer genuine support and connection.
- Practice Digital Detox: Regularly take breaks from social media. Use this time to engage in activities that promote well-being, such as reading, exercising, or pursuing hobbies.
Midweek Motivational Coffee Break
To combat the isolation and loneliness in my area, I am establishing a ‘Midweek Motivational Coffee Break’. This free event is held at Cobham Coffee Roasters and is specifically aimed at remote or lone workers, including emergency service workers, who crave face-to-face interaction. It’s a wonderful opportunity to take a break from the digital world, engage in meaningful conversations, and share a laugh with like-minded individuals. Sometimes, a friendly chat over a cup of coffee can do wonders for your mental well-being.
The Healing Power of Nature
One of the most effective ways to counteract the negative effects of social media is to reconnect with nature. Spending time outdoors has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and depression, while improving mood and overall well-being. Nature provides a respite from the constant barrage of digital information and offers a sense of peace and grounding.
- Physical Health Benefits: Activities like walking, hiking, or cycling in nature can improve physical fitness, which in turn enhances mental health. The fresh air and natural surroundings can rejuvenate the body and mind. My local Crossfit is hosting FREE monthly classes for Serving and Veteran Armed Forces and Emergency Services to build a community to train together and chat together where they can belong. Op Grindstone
- Mental Clarity and Relaxation: Nature has a calming effect on the mind. The sights, sounds, and smells of natural environments can help to clear the mind, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
- Enhanced Mood and Creativity: Exposure to nature has been linked to improved mood and increased creativity. It can inspire new perspectives and ideas, helping to break the cycle of negative thinking.
Connection and Mindfulness: Being in nature encourages mindfulness and a sense of connection to the world around us. This can foster a greater appreciation for life and reduce feelings of isolation.
Conclusion: Embracing a Balanced Digital Diet
While social media is an invaluable tool for staying connected and informed, it is crucial to be mindful of its impact on our mental health. By understanding how algorithms influence what we see and taking steps to curate our feeds, limit screen time, and engage critically, we can avoid being overwhelmed by negativity.
Moreover, by prioritising real-world connections and spending time in nature, we can counterbalance the digital gloom with genuine experiences that promote well-being and resilience. Remember, Darling, the key to a healthier, happier life lies in finding balance – both online and offline. By taking control of your social media consumption and embracing the healing power of nature, you can navigate the digital landscape with greater ease and confidence, ultimately fostering a more positive and fulfilling life.
If you’re ready to take control of your mental health and break free from the negativity of social media, join me for our ‘Midweek Motivational Coffee Break’ at Cobham Coffee Roasters. Let’s connect face-to-face, share a laugh, and support each other in creating a balanced and fulfilling life.
If you or someone you know is struggling with Complex-PTSD, PTSD, Stress or Anxiety contact me for a free chat to see how I can reduce its impact and reclaim your life.