WACO, Texas — On social media, it is almost inevitable to stumble upon an inappropriate photo or video. Sometimes it almost feels like you cannot escape it.
Seeing graphic content is something Texas A&M Central Texas professor and mental health expert Amy Mersiovsky says many people have unfortunately gotten used to.
"We've become so desensitized to seeing all these things that a lot of us are really losing empathy for others," Mersiovsky explained.
In an article written by Michael Pittaro on Psychology Today, he explained how social media can appear as if it's largely become a central hub for spewing hate, intolerance and, in many cases, depicting "real-life" acts of graphic violence and aggression indicative of a total disregard for human life.
To help avoid these negative effects, Thrive Wellness founder Kat Geiger suggests putting the phone down, taking a walk and increasing your intake of vitamins.
"Good enough levels of vitamin D in your system are linked to less struggles with mental health and less stress overall," Geiger said. "The other vitamin you want to make sure that you're getting in are Omega-3 fatty acids."
Geiger also gave an example of how to practice mindfulness to step away from negative thinking.
"We call it mindfulness in the mental health world," Geiger continued. "What that means is, right here right now I am safe. I am sitting in my home. My family is at school and at work, the sun is shining and I know things are OK in this moment. I'm not promised the next moment, but if I live in this moment, I know things are OK."
The holidays are right around the corner and seasonal depression tends to come with them.
5% of adults in the U.S. experience seasonal depression, according to the American Psychiatric Association.
Mersiovsky encourages people to check in with friends and family who may need support during the season.
"It's always good to find friends or perhaps volunteering, that can help you be with other people and make you feel a little better about that situation," Mersiovsky said.
Mental health resources for Texans can be found here.
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