"Our freedom is incomplete without the freedom of the Palestine.” - Nelson Mandela
Courtesy of the digital world, by now, almost everyone is well aware of the geopolitical atrocities in Gaza. While social media offers an insight into the whys and hows, it can also bring forth a complex array of psychological effects that can hinder an individual’s ability to compartmentalize.
The innate quality of being empathetic in most people, if not all, can sometimes backfire if not given the right direction.
This blog aims to discuss the psychological effects of social media in the context of the Palestinian oppression by Israelis and how to deal with it.
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An ocean of information, social media has no limits when it comes to giving us updates and details of everything that’s happening around the world.
Since the mainstream media is a puppet to those in power, we resort to social platforms for valid information and real-time updates. It is the need of the hour but as genius as the human brain may be, it has its shortcomings when it comes to emotional overload.
Extended periods of exposure to visual content and emotionally intense narratives may exacerbate feelings of helplessness and anxiety.
How to adjust your emotional storage?
Well, we suggest mindful consumption. Take frequent breaks and set a limit on your exposure to evocative content if it hampers your ability to think.
If you feel like you cannot handle a post, say a small prayer and scroll past it.
And if you need to vent, we’re here to listen.
Anything you say can and will be used against you in the court of social media:
Has it ever happened that you’ve discussed a dinner plan with your friend and, a while later when you check your phone, you’re bombarded with dinner buffet deals? Well, this is how social media algorithms work, by creating echo chambers wherein you are exposed to data that manifests your emotions.
In the context of the Gaza conflict, this can impede your efforts to understand different perspectives. Consequences? We start aligning ourselves with one side to the point where all other opinions, be it from a learned individual do not matter.
How to be informed without being brainstormed?
Seek out a variety of viewpoints and trustworthy news sources to avoid becoming trapped in your own echo chamber.
Promote an open mind and productive dialogue that takes into account the complexity of the issue at hand.
Real-time footage of events is more reliable than mainstream news channels. Open your eyes!
Not all heroes wear capes!
Bully behind the screen:
Social media is not a very welcoming place when it comes to sharing your opinions, especially if it doesn’t align with the majority.
Unless an individual is resilient, it is very difficult to navigate your way out of a toxic digital environment.
The sheer lack of humanity portrayed by the majority of developed countries compels us to call out for justice and spread the word but being careful while doing so will help us be stronger for what’s in store.
How to deal with a bully?
Our suggestion aligns with Mark Twain sir’s quote,
“Never argue with an idiot. They will drag you down to their level and beat you with experience.”
So simply, walk away or you could report a person or page that promotes hate speech and negativity. The best you can do is talk to somebody who will understand you and help you with your emotions.
I feel for you, to the point where I don’t:
Nonstop exposure to distressing social media posts and images can cause vicarious trauma, a condition in which people feel emotionally distressed as a result of empathizing with the suffering of others.
This is a natural human response of course, but if not balanced, it can contribute to compassion fatigue, a state of emotional exhaustion that can cause people to withdraw altogether from the ongoing struggle.
What to do to keep your empathy alive?
We encourage you to partake in offline activities that support mental health, such as joyful pursuits, spending time with loved ones, and practicing mindfulness.
Maintaining psychological resilience requires striking a balance between online and offline involvement. Find out what brings you peace and voila! there’s your balance.
How to protect your mental health while calling out for justice?
Social networking sites can offer tools for digital well-being, such as controls over screen time, and the ability to hide upsetting information. These tools can enable users to move around the digital environment with vigilance.
Additionally, social media offers a wide range of mental health resources that help you navigate your emotions and internal conflicts.
In the wake of geopolitical atrocities in Gaza, It is crucial to understand the dire psychological effects of digital connectivity on different people, while doing our best to implement strategies to help out the victims and mitigate consequences.
Creating an online environment that is more knowledgeable, compassionate, and mentally robust should be an area of immediate concern as we navigate the digital battlefield.
Instead of mindless scrolling, engaging in programs that can help the victims will bring out a sense of satisfaction and relief.
And oh! FROM THE RIVER TO THE SEA?!
Can exposure to war-related content on social media affect mental health?
Yes, extended exposure to distressing content, such as the geopolitical conflict in Gaza, can contribute to feelings of helplessness and anxiety.
How does emotional overload from social media occur, and how can it be managed?
How do social media algorithms influence perspectives during conflicts like Gaza?
Can war-related videos impact mental health?
Why do people watch war-related videos?
What emotional reactions can occur from watching war videos?
How can one deal with online bullying related to differing opinions on geopolitical conflicts?
What is vicarious trauma, and how can it lead to compassion fatigue?
How can individuals maintain empathy while avoiding compassion fatigue?
Are there tools on social media to protect mental health during distressing events?
If the emotional toll of what you see online feels overwhelming, you don't have to face it alone. Reach out to a qualified Malayali psychologist at Koott for online counseling that helps you regain balance and clarity. Take the first step toward healing today.
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"Kudos on addressing the psychological toll of online activism in conflict zones. Your insights on mindfulness, empathy, and fostering a positive digital space are invaluable. Keep up the impactful work! 👏📝 #ThoughtfulWriting"