Experts across the Balkans warn of the negative effects that occur due to excessive exposure to media content, especially those related to violence, depression and other psychological trauma. However, is the media solely to blame for the deterioration of mental health or is it just a mirror of the problems that society already has?
Doctor Aleksandar Popović, psychiatrist and psychotherapist, points out that excessive exposure to the media is a serious risk factor for the development of various mental disorders.
"Recently, we have noticed a significant increase in depression and anxiety among young people, and one of the factors contributing to this is definitely the media environment. Constant bombardment with negative information and dramatic events can seriously affect the psychological state," explains Popović.
However, he says that the media can also be a tool for preserving mental health if used responsibly.
He points out the so-called Papageno effect, according to which adequate reporting of mental problems, such as suicide, can have a positive impact.
“When mental health issues are handled with care, like the way journalists in Vienna are trained to avoid sensationalism, the number of suicides can be significantly reduced. An example is the drop in the suicide rate in the Vienna metro by as much as 75% after the implementation of these measures," Popović emphasizes.
However, he adds, sensationalist reporting, known as the Werther effect, has the opposite outcome - an increase in the number of suicides. This shows how important the media's treatment of sensitive topics is.
Professor Mario Hibert from the Faculty of Philosophy of the University of Sarajevo, who researches the impact of the media on society, emphasizes the importance of the media's responsibility in presenting information.
"The media has the power to shape the reality in which we live. When they report news of violence, disasters and accidents, they do not consider the emotional cost that such information has on the audience. "Unfortunately, the need for responsibility and a healthy approach to information is lacking," Hibert points out.
Hibbert adds that especially vulnerable are young people who form their opinions and attitudes based on the content they are exposed to.
"Research shows that young people who constantly consume negative media content develop a pessimistic view of the world, which can lead to serious psychological problems. That is why it is necessary for the media to recognize their role in preserving mental health," Hibert believes.
Nova M television journalist Željka Mirković, who deals with topics from psychology and mental health, points out that it is important for journalists to become aware of the consequences of their reports on people's spiritual condition.
"Many journalists do not have enough education on the psychological aspects of reporting, and given the ubiquity of the media in today's society, education is needed on how and in what way to report on sensitive topics," says Mirković.
She emphasizes that when reporting on difficult topics such as suicides, violence and natural disasters, it is necessary to apply specific ethical guidelines, in order to reduce the negative impact on the mental health of viewers and readers.
"Journalists need to recognize when there is sufficient distance between highlighting the details of tragedies and providing constructive information that can help those facing similar challenges," she adds.
The influence of social networks - ally or enemy?
On the other hand, social networks often portray unrealistic standards of living, which contributes to feelings of dissatisfaction and depression, especially among young people.
Social networks have become an inevitable part of everyday life, especially among young people. Although they enable connection and sharing of content, they also carry serious risks. Constant exposure to other people's "perfect" lives can cause feelings of dissatisfaction, lower self-confidence and even symptoms of depression.
According to a report by the American Psychological Association, users who spend more than three hours a day on social networks have a significantly higher risk of developing anxiety disorders.
Doctor Popović notes that "false positivism" is often displayed on social networks, which creates the illusion that everyone but us leads a perfect life.
"Young people become anxious and depressed because they compare their everyday lives to idealized versions of other people's lives," he explains.
Although there are no statistics for Montenegro, Popović points out that according to the data he has, the suicide rate among young people under the age of 25 is alarmingly high.
"Suicide is the second leading cause of death in this population, and reporting on this often inadequately approaches the problem," he warns.
The media, although often criticized, can play a key role in raising awareness of mental health issues. Campaigns to destigmatize mental health, such as the global initiative "It's OK to not be OK", are an example of how platforms can be used for education and support.
However, according to Dr. Popović, such efforts are often insufficient, because at the same time there are opposite examples.
"Media that transmit sensational headlines and shocking images can cause anxiety and panic in society. The key is in the education of media professionals in order to find a balance, in controlling the content and the time spent on the networks. There are many tools and applications that can help monitor and limit time online," Popović points out.
He adds that social networks should be a space for positive exchange of ideas, not for criticism and violence.
How to protect mental health in the digital age?
Research shows that digital detox is an increasingly popular trend, especially among young people who are aware of the harmful impact of a constant presence on social networks.
"I recommend setting boundaries, such as screen-free time before bed or limiting time spent on social networks," advises Dr. Popović.
In addition, more and more experts are advocating the introduction of mental health education in schools. Through workshops and classes, young people can learn how to recognize and manage their emotions. Also, the promotion of physical activity and healthy lifestyles has a key role in preserving mental health.
In countries like Finland and Sweden, where emotional intelligence and mental health care are taught as early as primary school, research shows a reduction in rates of anxiety disorders and depression among young people.
However, what is being done in Montenegro on this issue? The Ministry of Health of Montenegro emphasized the importance of providing adequate support to citizens, along with the simultaneous education of media and journalists.
"The Ministry of Health of Montenegro has been launching initiatives for some time that deal with improving conditions for mental health, as well as educating the media about this important topic," reads the Ministry's response.
As they add, with the support of the media, they will work to promote healthy communication practices and prevent problems such as stress and depression, which are often caused by irresponsible media coverage.
The question is, however, whether the media and experts, the government and society in general recognize the importance of this problem.
This text was made with the financial support of the National Endowment for Democracy. The content is solely the responsibility of the authors and publishers of the Media Institute of Montenegro and does not necessarily reflect the views of the donors.
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