It’s easy to get stuck in an endless loop of bad news while scrolling through social media. Upsetting, conflict-ridden headlines dominate our feeds, making the world seem like an awful place void of any compassion. Fortunately though, there are many news sites dedicated to spreading good stories.
But why should you add good news to your media diet in the first place? Believe it or not, consuming good news is good for your mental health! Media researcher Jodie Jackson explains that it can help reduce anxiety, balance your worldview and motivate you to take action on social issues. Good news is more than just a temporary mood-booster; it pushes you away from pessimism and toward optimism in the long run.
If you’ve been feeling stressed by the news lately, here are four awesome positive news sites that will brighten your day, fill you with hope and inspire you to make a difference.
Good Good Good
Launched in 2017 by writer and activist Brandon Harvey, Good Good Good covers the good in the world and gives people the resources to do good themselves. They publish inspirational stories about everyday heroes as well as hopeful updates on important issues like climate change. Aside from publishing new articles daily, they offer a free email newsletter and host a podcast that discusses positive social change. You can also follow them on Instagram and Facebook to bring positivity to your social media feeds!
Yes! Media
If you’re looking for ways to make a real impact, Yes! Media is the perfect platform to follow. Yes! Media is a non-profit media organization committed to solutions journalism. The organization publishes articles every day online and in a quarterly print magazine. Their site covers current issues, including abortion, gun violence and climate change, from an optimistic perspective. Their reporting goes beyond answering the what, who, why and where behind these issues but also gives information on how people can help.
The Happy News
The Happy News, a quarterly print newspaper, is a great alternative to the clickbait and divisive news all over social media. British writer and illustrator Emily Coxhead founded the newspaper back in 2015 after observing the negative effects of news on her own mental health. Each issue of The Happy News revolves around a specific theme, and includes uplifting stories, fun poems and colorful graphics. In addition, the newspaper features a popular ‘Everyday Heroes’ section that spotlights different people, groups and organizations nominated by readers for their positive impact on the world. You can also sign up for their free email newsletter to get the top highlights from every issue.
Good Black News
In 2010, writer Lori Lakin Hutcherson founded the volunteer-based news organization Good Black News in an effort to amplify Black voices from around the world. The organization shares the positive contributions of Black people in everything from the arts to sports to politics. Through sharing these often overlooked stories by mainstream media, Hutcherson and her team hope to shatter stereotypes and promote inclusivity.
Final Thoughts
Mainstream media tends to give more attention to negative stories, which can leave you stressed about the world and hopeless about the future. But, in reality, plenty of good things are happening all around us! It’s just a matter of seeking out different sources and being mindful of the content you choose to consume and share on social media.
Regularly consuming good stories will help you stay informed while also breaking the bad news cycle. And what’s more, you’ll start experiencing a positive shift in your life. You’ll become a happier version of yourself and a better member of your community.
So, go read some good news and spread a little sunshine!