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Consume Content Mindfully, Not Just Frequently
The impact of social media and internet consumption on wellbeing is more closely tied to the nature of the content consumed rather than the frequency of use. Research highlights that mental health influences the type of content individuals seek online, particularly showing that those with more mental health challenges tend to engage with negative content. Studies demonstrate a correlation where negative information worsens mental health symptoms, suggesting a feedback loop where consuming negativity reinforces psychological distress. A key insight is that the valence of the information—whether positive or negative—has direct effects on mood, indicating that mindful consumption of content is essential for mental wellbeing. It's crucial to consider not only the time spent online, but also the content being engaged with, especially among vulnerable populations who are more likely to seek out and be affected by harmful information.