Is It Selfish Not to Watch or Read the News? The Balance Between Informed Citizenship and Mental Well-being

Whether or not to engage with the news can be a personal decision, influenced by a myriad of factors. It is not inherently selfish to avoid watching or reading the news. Here are some points to consider that can help you find a balanced approach:

Mental Health: Prioritizing Well-being

Constant exposure to negative news can lead to anxiety and distress. It is important to prioritize your mental well-being. Taking a break from the news, especially if it involves constant exposure to distressing content, can be a healthy choice. This does not mean you should avoid all news sources altogether; rather, it suggests finding a balance that works for you.

Informed Citizenship: The Responsibility to Stay Informed

Staying updated with current events is a responsibility of citizenship. Being well-informed allows individuals to contribute to discussions and make informed decisions within their communities. However, it is crucial to find reliable and unbiased sources to ensure accurate information. Balancing your news intake with multiple sources and perspectives can help you form a well-rounded understanding of the world around you.

Balance: Engaging Selectively

You can find a balance by engaging with the news selectively. Focusing on trusted sources and prioritizing content that is relevant to your interests can help mitigate potential negative effects while still keeping you informed. For example, instead of spending an entire evening watching the news, you might choose to read a few key headlines or articles that directly impact your daily life or community.

Personal Circumstances: Feasibility and Context

Consider your personal circumstances. If you are already overwhelmed or focused on immediate responsibilities, it might not be feasible to stay fully updated on the news. In such cases, it is essential to prioritize what you can manage without sacrificing your overall well-being. This does not mean you are ignoring your responsibilities; instead, it means making conscious decisions about what information is most critical and how you can obtain it.

In some cases, certain news formats might not be the best way to get your information. For example, the evening news often focuses on a narrow range of topics and limited time slots, which can make it uninformative and superficial. Similarly, news analysis shows may present biased perspectives that are not verified or balanced. These formats can lead to a skewed understanding of events, as opinions are often presented as hard information.

A Balanced Approach: Diverse News Sources

To stay informed and well-rounded, I get my news from a variety of sources, both in my home country and from around the world. This approach allows me to read multiple perspectives and form a more nuanced understanding of the issues at hand. By engaging with news from different countries and regions, you can gain a broader and more comprehensive view of global events.

Ultimately, finding the right balance between keeping informed and protecting your mental well-being is about personal choice and responsibility. It is important to be mindful of the sources you trust and the information you need to stay informed, while also recognizing the importance of mental health in your overall well-being.