Should You Watch the News Every Day?
The news is filled with politics, scandals, disasters, economic downturns, and stock market fluctuations—all of which can contribute to daily anxiety and stress. This raises an important question: Should we consume news every day?
While staying informed is valuable, constant exposure to negative headlines may do more harm than good.
The Link Between News and Depression
Studies suggest that the ratio of bad news to good news in mainstream media is approximately 9:1. This overwhelming negativity can contaminate your thoughts, acting like a magnet for pessimism and fear.
🔹 Instead of filling your mind with stressful headlines, why not choose uplifting content?
🔹 Websites like DailyGood.org share inspiring and positive stories that cultivate hope and motivation.
By making a conscious effort to shift your focus, you can protect your mental well-being.
Does News Reflect Reality?
Some argue that ignoring the news means ignoring reality. However, does the news truly reflect the world as it is?
Consider this: Some seniors watch the news all day, constantly bombarded with stories of violence, theft, and tragedy. Over time, they may develop a deep fear of the outside world, hesitant to leave their homes.
📢 The reality is often far different from what the news portrays. While dangers exist, most people are kind, communities are thriving, and good things happen daily—but those stories rarely make headlines.
Excessive news consumption can create a victim mentality, making you feel as if the world is dangerous and beyond hope. A more balanced approach is to stay informed occasionally without becoming consumed by fear.
Manage Your Diet Anywhere
The News and Personal Well-Being
Much of what we see in the news is beyond our control. While we can make a difference through:
Voting
Advocacy
Community involvement
… we cannot solve global crises on a daily basis.
Instead of dwelling on negativity, focus on personal growth, relationships, and goals. Your energy is better spent creating positive change in your own life.
Alternative Ways to Stay Informed
Social Circles: If something truly important happens, you’ll likely hear about it through conversation.
Online Research: When you need information, you can always seek it out purposefully, rather than consuming it passively.
Staying informed is valuable—but it shouldn’t come at the cost of your peace of mind.
Would you consider reducing your news intake?
Change your thoughts and you change your world
-Norman Vincent Peale
Mental Health America. (2024). Negative news coverage and mental health.
