I don’t usually comment on politics or world events on this blog, as that’s not its purpose. However, I do want to talk about mental health in the context of modern living and current world politics/events leading to misinformation on social media.
The reality of modern living is that there is much to worry about and it is frightening times to live. I follow the news daily and I have to say this decade has been nothing but a complete nightmare. The world stage feels full of complex issues, divisions, and uncertainty. Decisions and outcomes too often seem to lead to conflict and aggression. Regardless of any persons views, it is hard to know what truths exist and what is just lies and made up nonsense. It makes it hard as a result to have any balanced view on any subject.
It really does feel like a sad time to be alive. I do worry for the future and the mental health of all. Not wanting to turn this into a “good old days” piece as all generations and decades have had issues but I cannot help but feel that every decade that passes gets increasingly complex. Advancements in technologies that are often seen as positives appear to cause as many new problems as they perhaps solve. And while I love technology and previously felt lucky to live during a period of great technological change, I cannot help but feel that life was simpler without all the tech advances that supposedly enhance our lives. More than likely technology is contributing to issues and aids the spread of factually incorrect information (looking at you social media). Most worryingly is that we have all likely fallen for lies unwittingly and also helped spread misinformation.
Misinformation (and fake news) is a massive issue nowadays. The result is that it is hard for anyone to form any sound judgements as you likely only have partial facts or are faced with lies/inaccurate information. Hopefully most of us try to consider this possibility when forming opinions.
It does feel like society is self-destructing. Many reports in the news detail how poor mental health is for our youth in particular. No surprise really when you think about the way we live nowadays.
As I am at an age where I have witnessed a lot of change, it would be pleasing to think that over the years that lessons have been learnt and we live in a safer and more rounded society than we did in the past. It doesn’t feel that way.
I don’t know the solution, and this is undoubtedly part of the problem, as no one likely does. However, perhaps it begins with each of us being a little more aware of misinformation, taking care of our own mental health, and considering how we can support those around us. We likely also need to question more and consider that we may not have been provided with all the full facts. Easier said than done, I suspect. I genuinely hope that future positive changes in society can help change things for the better for everyone. If only we could all see a way to identify how we can influence improved mental health for all within this modern landscape. Reflection is likely key.
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