The Hidden Epidemic: How Misinformation Compromises Our Mental HealthCredits: Eduardo Magalhães via Adobe
Published 07/05/2024 23:47 | Updated 05/07/2024 23:57
We live in an era where information is as quick as a click, but this advance has a dark side: misinformation. Far from being a mere nuisance, studies reveal that it profoundly affects the mental health of the population.
A recent survey carried out by the University of Oxford shows that individuals who frequently access fake news websites tend to develop symptoms of anxiety, depression and stress more significantly than those who consult reliable sources.
Brazilian statistics corroborate this concern. According to Datafolha, around 62% of Brazilians admit that it is difficult to distinguish fake news from real news, which can contribute to an increase in stress and anxiety in the population. The scenario is even more alarming among vulnerable groups, such as minorities and people with chronic conditions, where belief in false treatments can lead to the refusal of essential therapies, further worsening the health of these individuals.
The solution to mitigating these impacts necessarily involves effectively combating misinformation. Initiatives such as the Lenium platform, which stands out in promoting independent and factual journalism, are essential. In an interview, platform representative Fabricio Vieira further describes that: “Our commitment is to provide the public with a platform for news portals, promoting responsible journalism”.
Media education, combined with the joint work of media platforms, governments and educational institutions, can equip the population with the necessary tools to discern the real from the false, thus building a safer and healthier digital environment.
