Negativity and anger can affect your health or the health of someone you love. I like social media for the social, entertainment, connectivity and information side of it. But it saddens and worries me by what I read on sites now, not only the posts but especially the comments. Perhaps if each one of us shares this we can help one person to rethink anger and negativity. Why is it acceptable for people to curse at and call each other horrific names online (what would your mother think)?  How do people think they can educate someone to their point of view with rudeness and blame (would you choose that teacher)?  Through negativity and impoliteness, people have become what they are calling out others for. And the behavior has spread to their personal life, relationships and work environments. I treat so many patients now for anxiety and mood disorders and I think a lot of it is coming from these changes in environment. My recommendations for better mental and physical health:

Limit total time spent on television and social media. Avoid the so called news, their research shows that sensationalism and outrageousness keeps people watching. Prove them wrong!

Avoid posts that cause you too much angst. Un-follow friends that post negativity. You don’t have to unfriend them, just take a break from them.

Post only positive thoughts and use patience and politeness if you are expressing opinions. Remember there is a real person on the other end of the computer.

Spend more time outside. Spend more time with family (make it electronic free time, believe me we’ll all remember how to talk with each other again)

Educate and teach through example. Start with “the person in the mirror” and others will follow. (yes, I plagiarized Michael Jackson, forgive me)

Stop blaming the government and other people. It’s very addictive behavior and no good comes from it.

Show people the kind, loving person you are and people will want to listen to you. Through social media YOU have the ability to change the world, by posting beauty, by expressing love. Believe me if people see enough of it they will follow suit. Group psychology and group mentality is contagious, let’s use it for goodness. (it’s a superpower) For the sake of your mental and physical health and those around you let’s try it.

Spread some love and kindness! Maybe we can create an environment that stimulates good health and less medicine. 

#spreadkindness #socialmedia #positivethoughts #goodhealth