Beware of the headlines...

In 2025, it can feel like the world is constantly breaking news. Every time we glance at our phones, we’re met with bold headlines designed to make us stop and look — often framed around worry, danger, or urgency. Even when we’re simply trying to relax, a sudden alert can pull us into a story that leaves our hearts racing or our stomachs tight. Headlines are meant to grab us… but they rarely tell the whole truth.

In therapy, I often hear people speak about the anxiety they feel after being exposed to worrying content online. A single dramatic headline — especially when it lacks context — can spark fear and leave us imagining worst-case scenarios. Our brains are wired to react quickly to perceived threats. When those “threats” come through tiny screens hundreds of times a day, we can end up feeling confused, overwhelmed, or permanently on edge.

TikTok adds another layer to this. Its fast-paced, algorithm-driven feed prioritises content that triggers strong reactions — fear, shock, or outrage. Videos about diagnoses, trauma, or mental health “self-checks” can feel personal and convincing, even though they often oversimplify or generalise. Many people begin to question whether something must be “wrong” with them, simply because a 30-second video says so. And because the app learns what makes us pause or panic, it shows us more of the same. Worry becomes a feedback loop.

Slowing down with what we consume is an act of care. It can help to gently ask:

Is this information reliable? Does it apply to me? How do I feel after watching this — and is that feeling helpful right now? This isn’t about ignoring the world; it’s about protecting our mental space so we can respond thoughtfully rather than react fearfully.

Sometimes the most supportive thing we can do for ourselves is to disconnect. Muting certain topics, taking breaks from scrolling, or setting boundaries around when we engage with news or TikTok can give our nervous system space to settle. We deserve moments in the day where our minds are not being pulled towards crisis or comparison.

Therapy offers a place to explore how digital content shapes our beliefs, self-worth, and sense of safety. Together, we can build healthier boundaries with the online world — so you stay informed without becoming overwhelmed, connected without feeling consumed, and aware of what’s happening without losing sight of your own wellbeing.