While it’s good to stay informed on news and social media, the proliferation of information in the modern world can sometimes feel overwhelming. Here’s our top tips for switching off from news and media.
Most Aussies consume some form of news and media, with a sizeable percentage of us getting our news from social media.
But the widespread availability of headlines–on our smartphones, on our computers, on the TV, and more–can be overwhelming for modern viewers. The 24/7 nature of the international news cycle, the often graphic nature of content, and our perceived lack of control over such events can make us feel more anxious, on edge, or even depressed or traumatised.
A recent study by UNICEF found that 60% of young people feel overwhelmed by the news and seemingly unrelenting global crises. News avoidance is increasingly common.
f you’re feeling fatigued by your consumption of news and media and think it might be affecting your mental health, it’s important to act. You don’t have to necessarily avoid news and media altogether, but setting good boundaries around how you consume content is important.
Some ways that you might like to change your consumption of news and media include:
- Signing up for newsletters or news summaries from trusted sources rather than accessing news from multiple sources. Try to limit “doom-scrolling” where possible. (If you feel addicted to scrolling, you may like to try switching your phone to grayscale mode, which can make scrolling feel less exciting.)
- Disabling push notifications or alerts on news apps and/or social media and setting a regular, short time each day to access updates.
- Picking one mode only to consume news, e.g., news online but not TV or social media.
- Keep your phone out of reach when you wake up, eat meals, and before you go to bed.
- If you’re distressed by a particular global crisis and struggling to know what you could do to help, you may choose to donate a small amount to a trusted charity.
| Introducing our newest clinician, Chris Mo |
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Join us in welcoming psychologist Chris Mo to the AB Clinical Psychology Team! Chris is a warm and compassionate psychologist who helps people navigate life’s challenges with evidence-based care and genuine understanding. He has extensive experience supporting members of the Australian Defence Force and Law Enforcement, as well as individuals managing trauma, anxiety, depression, and adjustment difficulties. Drawing on training in Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT), Acceptance and Commitment Therapy (ACT), Self-Compassion Focused Therapy (SCFT), and Emotion-Focused Therapy (EFT), Chris tailors his approach to each client’s unique goals and strengths. His sessions focus on building resilience, fostering insight, and developing practical strategies that create lasting change. With a particular interest in helping leaders, managers, and senior professionals achieve personal and professional growth, Chris brings a thoughtful and grounded perspective to his work. He is currently completing a Master of Clinical Psychology to further deepen his expertise and clinical excellence. Chris has expertise in:
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