Advice
Dealing With the News and Social Media When a Loved One Has Died
May 14, 2025
Media platforms such as television, radio or social media channels can be great ways to gain information; however, when you are going through a very difficult time, seeing news about negative things happening around the world can be distressing.
Seeing a lot of negative news can make you feel worried, sad or hopeless – if you were recently bereaved, it might all feel a bit too much. It is, therefore, important to look after yourself and limit media consumption that does not serve you. In this blog post, we’ll look at ways of dealing with negative news on the media, and how to look after yourself along the way.
Unfollow people and pages that don’t make you feel good
Following pages and people on social media such as Facebook, TikTok and Instagram can be fun and informative. However, if you feel like following certain people or pages brings your mood down, it is okay to unfollow them. If it is someone you know and you don’t want to cause an argument, you can restrict their profile, mute them or “take a break” depending on the platform which won’t notify the person, but might help you avoid seeing potentially triggering things.
Switch the channels during news times
If you find watching or listening to the news too worrying, consider changing the channel during the news hours. You could also consider getting a music player app or a streaming service where you can choose what films or songs you want to listen to.
If your web browser likes to show you some of the top stories when you open a new tab, change your settings to open to a search engine page or “safe” website instead so you’re not bombarded every time you go online.
Manage your ads
On apps such as Facebook, TikTok and Instagram, you can choose to manage your ads and choose topics that you don’t want to see any ads about. You can restrict certain words or click “not interested” on posts – you can also unsubscribe from emails that are irrelevant, and opt out of marketing around occasions like Mother’s or Father’s Day.
Consider engaging with positive news instead
On many social media platforms, you can find pages and creators who focus solely on sharing positive news, which can help bring your mood up. You can also search for things that you like and that make you happy, whether it is related to your hobby or something like cute animal videos.
Why not try and find funny podcasts, radio shows with presenters you like, or even magazines that are linked to your hobby – you don’t have to shut the world out completely, just pick the bits that bring you joy!
Connect with people face-to-face
Connecting with others in person can be very helpful for your mental health and can make a positive impact on your wellbeing when you are going through a difficult time. This could include meeting up with friends or family, volunteering, or joining a hobby or sports club.
Hopefully, you found some of these tips helpful, and if you have other ways of dealing with the news and social media during difficult times, do get in touch.
