CLEVELAND, Ohio - There are countless gruesome and graphic videos being shared on social media following the tragedies in the news this week.
And if you're having a hard time being inundated by that content, you're not alone – many are feeling sad, anxious and overwhelmed.
Doctors say it's completely understandable for someone to be upset after watching a violent video, which is why they advise people to not watch that same video again or anything related to it. Instead, they recommend taking a break from social media and finding something positive to distract you. You could go outside and get some fresh air, play happy music or put on a favorite TV show. You could also spend time with family and friends.
They add that if you are tempted to keep looking at those videos, know it could have negative consequences.
"When we're seeing violence on social media, it in itself is traumatizing. And often on social media, things are not blocked out. And so, you're seeing the entire thing, which is not something that most of us are used to," said Dr. Chivonna Childs of the Cleveland Clinic.
Dr. Childs says if you start to notice extreme feelings of anxiety or depression, it's important to reach out for help. She also suggests using parental controls for your children's devices to prevent them from seeing graphic videos.
