The Power of Words
Before you type, think twice. Behind every article is a human trying their best. Negative comments have consequences, especially for those already battling mental health challenges.
We live in an age where media is both a vital source of information and a battlefield for opinions. Social media and comment sections have opened the floodgates to instant reactions, but what many fail to realise is the impact their words have on the real people behind the screen. Writers, editors, and journalists work tirelessly to deliver content that informs, educates, and sometimes protects lives, especially in matters of health and safety.
The Recent Backlash: A Personal Impact
A recent article we published about the new Covid strain known as “Nimbus” sparked a wave of derogatory and mocking comments. These remarks were not simply constructive criticism they were laced with sarcasm, disrespect, and in some cases, outright malice. While readers may scroll on, the people behind the article particularly the editor felt the weight of every word. For someone already navigating the complexities of mental health, such hostility can be debilitating.
Mental Health in Journalism: A Silent Struggle
Journalists and editors are not immune to stress, anxiety, or depression. In fact, the pressure of daily deadlines, the burden of accuracy, and the emotional toll of covering distressing subjects can be overwhelming. When negativity is hurled their way, especially in a sneering or sarcastic tone, it can push them further into isolation and self-doubt. No one deserves to be publicly ridiculed for doing their job, especially when that job involves reporting the truth and safeguarding public health.
The Domino Effect of Negativity
What starts as a single nasty comment can quickly spiral. It can demotivate a team, cause anguish, and ultimately result in burnout or withdrawal from public-facing work. Worse still, it may lead a talented individual to stop writing altogether, depriving the world of a voice that genuinely aims to do good. This isn’t just about one comment; it’s about a culture that either uplifts or breaks people down.
If You Have Nothing Nice to Say…
Criticism can be helpful when it’s respectful and solution-focused. But spite, ridicule, and unkindness serve no purpose other than to harm. If you find yourself tempted to post a snide comment, especially in a group where negativity is encouraged, pause and reflect. What value are you adding? If none, perhaps silence is the better option. As the old adage goes: If you have nothing good to say, don’t say anything at all.
Let’s Create a Culture of Support, Not Scorn
Journalists and writers aren’t faceless entities, they are people, often working under pressure with a genuine desire to serve their communities. We ask our readers to show empathy. Encourage, support, and uplift those who share information that matters. Disagree if you must, but do it with respect. It costs nothing to be kind, and it could mean everything to the person on the receiving end.
A Final Word to the Critics
To those who left hurtful comments on our article about the Nimbus Covid variant: your words did not go unnoticed, and they did not land without consequence. Our editor, who is doing her utmost to serve the public in good faith, has been emotionally impacted. If that wasn’t your intention, perhaps now is the time to reflect. And if your goal was to harm, this message stands firm: we will not be silenced, and we will continue to report the truth with dignity and compassion. Negativity will not win here.
Andrew Jones is a seasoned journalist renowned for his expertise in current affairs, politics, economics and health reporting. With a career spanning over two decades, he has established himself as a trusted voice in the field, providing insightful analysis and thought-provoking commentary on some of the most pressing issues of our time.
