How Social Media Is Draining Kashmir's Spirit

(MENAFN- Kashmir Observer)
Photo for representational purposes only

By Shahid Ul Islam

We live in an era dominated by technology and social media. Information is available at our fingertips, and yet, instead of using these platforms for positivity and enlightenment, they have become sources of endless distress. Every time we open a social media app, we are met with heartbreaking news of death, disease, and despair. The digital space, which could have been a beacon of hope and knowledge, has turned into a relentless stream of sorrow, draining the mental and emotional strength of people.

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In Kashmir, this phenomenon is even more pronounced. Every second, we come across posts about someone's passing, another person battling cancer, or someone suffering from kidney failure. These tragedies are real, but their constant exposure through social media has left people feeling hopeless and mentally exhausted. Even those who are physically fit and fine are now feeling the weight of collective grief.

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While awareness about illnesses, deaths, and social struggles is necessary, the sheer volume of such content flooding our digital spaces is taking a toll on our mental health. Studies have shown that continuous exposure to distressing content increases anxiety, depression, and a sense of helplessness. For a place like Kashmir, already struggling with numerous socio-political and economic challenges, the addition of this emotional burden is overwhelming.

Social media is a powerful tool, capable of shaping narratives and influencing emotions. While some media professionals and individuals genuinely aim to spread awareness, many others share distressing content solely for engagement likes, shares, and comments without realising the deep psychological impact it has on the people of Kashmir. Tragedy should never be used as a means to gain social media traction. Unfortunately, the race for viral content has led to an increase in posts that capitalize on human suffering. People are now consuming grief like entertainment, scrolling through endless sorrow without realizing its effect on their emotional well-being.

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Kashmir has already witnessed decades of conflict, uncertainty, and trauma. The addition of digital grief has further intensified the emotional strain on its people. With every tragic post, a sense of powerlessness deepens. The people of Kashmir are not just battling real life struggles but are also fighting an unseen war of digital despair. Psychologists warn that exposure to excessive negative content can lead to increased anxiety and depression. Constantly reading about death and disease creates a sense of fear and helplessness. It leads to a desensitization towards Tragedy. Over time, people may become numb to suffering, losing empathy for real life issues. The continuous flood of bad news also leaves people drained, reducing their ability to function effectively in daily life.

It is high time we reconsider our digital habits. Instead of flooding social media with despair, let us make a conscious effort to share hope, encouragement, and stories of resilience. There are still moments of kindness, acts of bravery, and instances of love that deserve recognition. Let's highlight those. Imagine a social media feed filled with stories of courage, tales of individuals who have overcome hardships and inspired others; instances of acts of kindness, stories of people helping each other in times of need; or the news of people celebrating the successes of Kashmiris in various fields, from education to entrepreneurship. Additionally, a digital space filled with encouraging conversations around well-being, self-care, and seeking professional help when needed.

Social media is shaped by its users. Each one of us plays a role in determining what kind of content dominates our digital spaces. By being mindful of what we share, we can collectively break this cycle of sorrow and inject some light into our online world. This is not to say that we should ignore real-life issues. Rather, we should balance awareness with optimism. While it is important to acknowledge struggles, it is equally crucial to remind ourselves and others that life, despite its hardships, still holds beauty and hope.

The people of Kashmir deserve a sense of hope, a reason to smile, and the reassurance that better days lie ahead. It is our responsibility to create a digital environment that uplifts rather than drains, that empowers rather than disheartens. I urge every individual to be mindful of what they share. Let us become the voices of optimism, guiding each other toward a future filled with strength, resilience, and positivity. The change begins with us. Let's choose hope.

Views expressed in the article are the author's own and do not necessarily represent the editorial stance of Kashmir Observer

• The author is a student and tweets at @Shahidulislam_0

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