The Israel-Hamas conflict has sent shockwaves across the globe, touching the hearts and minds of individuals far removed from the front lines. Florida State University (FSU) students are not exempt from the emotional turbulence generated by the non-stop media coverage, barrage of violent videos and images, and overwhelming amount of misinformation. Even FSU Panhellenic sororities have taken to Instagram stories to condemn terrorist actions in Israel. Social media platforms often serve as unfiltered channels for content that claims to show the consequences of the conflict.
The power of social media in disseminating information, both credible and otherwise, is undeniable. As the Israel-Hamas conflict unfolds, platforms like Instagram or TikTok have become a primary source of news for many students. However, this instant access to information is a double-edged sword. While it provides a real-time understanding of global events, it also exposes students to a continuous stream of graphic images, some of which are disturbingly uncensored.
The Consequences of Uncensored Information
On X (formerly Twitter), a particularly distressing video falsely depicting the kidnapping of Israeli soldiers circulated widely. The New York Times reported hundreds of X accounts sharing images of dead bodies, supposedly Israeli civilians killed in the conflict. Some of these images were manipulated and edited, further complicating the situation.
The unverified and misleading content flooding social media has a profound impact on our society. While graphic imagery and misleading narratives might reveal some aspects of the conflict, they also muddy the waters, making it challenging to distinguish fact from fiction. In this environment, social media users are exposed to distressing information that is not only deeply unsettling but also often unverified.
Misinformation Is a Complex Challenge
The flood of misinformation during the Israel-Hamas conflict has been staggering. Social media platforms, including Instagram, became a breeding ground for inaccuracies. For example, pop sensation Justin Bieber posted a photo on Instagram showing Gaza with the caption “Pray for Israel,” only to delete it later. This incident highlights the challenge of discerning accurate information from the rampant spread of misinformation.
In another instance, actress Jamie Lee Curtis shared a picture of several children looking terrified while staring at missiles in the sky. She captioned it, “Terror from the skies,” alongside an Israel flag. Curtis also tagged Samar Abu Elouf, the photographer behind the image. However, Samar clarified that the picture, as seen above, featured Palestinian children in Gaza. These children were running from bombs being counter-launched by Israel. Such incidents emphasize the critical importance of fact-checking and the potential consequences of misinformation.
how to Cope with the Information Onslaught
1. Checking In With Myself
The first step in coping with this intense media coverage is to acknowledge my feelings and emotions. Recognize the impact these images and narratives have on my mental and emotional well-being. FSU offers a 24/7 call line to the campus Counseling and Psychological Services (CAPS) at (850)-644-TALK (8255).
2. Take Breaks From the News
Pausing the consumption of distressing news positively impacts my mental health. Many studies have shown that limiting exposure to graphic and distressing content can reduce anxiety and depression. It is also advisable to avoid watching such content right before bedtime, as it can disrupt sleep and exacerbate stress levels.
3. Engage in Meaningful Conversations
I discuss my feelings with friends, family, or peers. Engaging in empathic and constructive conversations can help me process my emotions and gain insight into different perspectives on the conflict.
4. Be Wary of Misinformation
To combat misinformation, I always question the sources and credibility of information before accepting it as fact. Fact-checking websites and reliable news outlets can help me verify the accuracy of the content I encounter.
5. Rely on Community
Many FSU students are finding solace in turning to their community. For example, last week hundreds of students gathered at the Civic Center for a candlelight vigil in honor of the lives lost in the Israel-Hamas conflict. Many Jewish students have spoken up and asked their friends to check on them during this time.
The Israel-Hamas conflict is not only a geopolitical issue. Its emotional impact has had far-reaching effects on people all over the globe, even those thousands of miles away from the conflict zone. Following President McCullough’s letter to the student body, FSU’s Student Government Senate passed a resolution reflecting the commitment to provide a neutral, open, constructive, and respectful environment for dialogue between students regardless of identity or views on the Israel-Palestinian conflict.
While it’s crucial to stay informed, it’s equally important to prioritize one’s emotional well-being in times of crisis. I, like many other FSU students, remember to check in with myself, take breaks from distressing news, engage in meaningful conversations, be vigilant about misinformation, and focus on self-care to help cope with the overwhelming mass media discharge of graphic and unsettling content.
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