How can the news affect your mental health?
How can the news affect your mental health?
At the moment we seem to be consumed by news. However, this has an impact on our thinking, behaviour and emotions. Therefore, if you’ve started checking the news for updates about Coronavirus this could be negatively affecting your mental health.
It’s important to strike a balance between being informed about the situation but not being overwhelmed by it. Therefore, try to remember that when the situation changes, and when good news arrives, it will reach you before you go to find it.
How does watching the news impact your mental health?
We know the COVID-19 outbreak is causing people stress. Lockdown has caused changes in routine, impacting on sleep patterns and eating habits. But it’s also brought with it worry about health, your family members, your job and the future.
Added to your stress, is the constant stream of news about COVID-19 that we are exposed to continuously. Every news bulletin contains an update of some sort. To the point where some people are becoming addicted to the news.
Tips for Managing the News
- Limit Your Time Each Day
Try not to leave your television on news channels and don’t have updates pinging on your phone. You need a break from it, so schedule a time to check the news once a day and leave it at that. Protect your mental health.
- Stay Away from Fake News
Avoid newspaper sensationalism. Check the sources of news are credible and have a balanced perspective.
- Do Something Positive After Watching the News
We may feel like watching the news is essential to keep up to date. Especially when things seem to change day to day. However, to help combat feelings of fear, anxiety and worry, choose to do something positive or healthy immediately after, like taking a walk or calling a friend. These types of distractions are essential for good mental health.