MOORHEAD, MINN. (Valley News Live) – Videos from immigration enforcement operations in Minnesota have been spreading across social media for weeks, and mental health experts say just watching them can cause real harm.
“When we talk about secondary trauma or vicarious trauma, what’s happening is that we’re having a traumatic response, but with our bodies and our minds to something that we’re not experiencing directly,” said Jon Ulven, a licensed psychologist at Sanford.
Social media has changed how people consume disturbing content, and doctors say the constant exposure is taking a toll.
“You can watch violent videos for hours following reels, and that type of exposure is something that’s actually really new to humans; it’s come with this technology, and I think what we’re understanding is that we’re not prepared for it,” Ulven said.
Experts say this can lead to symptoms like anxiety, sleep disruption, and intrusive thoughts. The impact can be even worse when the events are happening in your own community.
“If you see someone on a video being harmed and it’s close to you, that’s another piece that’s going to increase your reactivity to it,” Ulven said.
Mental health professionals recommend several strategies for those feeling overwhelmed by disturbing social media content.
“I often encourage people to make sure you’re checking with loved ones so you can talk with them about what your experiences are. We process things much better when we’re interacting with other people that we feel comforted by,” Ulven said.
Experts also say people should set limits on screen time, such as turning phones off at bedtime and during meals.
Mental health resources are available through the National Alliance on Mental Illness and the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, which is available 24/7.
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