It can become tedious and challenging to always be hearing about what is going on around the world, it can be hard to accept, and therefore can become overwhelming. To have access to anything healthcare related, including news, is incredibly important and not everyone is as lucky. The main reason we consume news is because of the value it holds in keeping people informed. Creating an understanding of what needs to change and why, including ways people can help keep the conversation going so that society can make a positive and impactful change together.

Having such access allows everyone to have an input of their own needs and ways people can better understand the global affects that are presented when people are left behind, forgotten, and isolated. It is not only the news that lacks information when talking about healthcare. Some other issues that are raised when talking about healthcare are the shortages of staff, the right equipment, long waiting times and for many, unaffordable treatment around the world.

Another reason there is limited information and access when it comes to healthcare is because of stigma.

Stigma is present when a lack of knowledge about certain issues is created, usually made from gossip and rumours. Stigma creates a barrier and a lack of trust which then affects everyone. Making people more likely to hide the way they are feeling which stops people from seeking out further information and the correct support. Therefore, people associate fear as the main response to any news presented to them. Stigma can negatively affect emotional, mental, and physical health.

Everyone can help towards stopping stigma, some things you can do are to speak about any negative behaviours, statements or stereotypes that are made. Use media outlets to spread messages that are clear and direct, ones that you have proof of being correct. As well as correcting any negative language that becomes associated with certain topics, so stigma is not created and we can all have access to healthcare news that is beneficial to our health and wellbeing.

The news can weigh heavy on us all. Some common emotions that are associated with reading or watching the news are grief, isolation, feeling unhelpful, anticipation, sadness, and anger. From time to time we may get overwhelmed with the news, which is why knowing ways you can make processing it a little easier is extremely useful.

Having little to no healthcare news negatively impacts everyone around the world. Including those working within the healthcare industry.

Here are some steps you can take to prevent information burnout when access to healthcare news is available:

Create a time for yourself where you can self-reflect on what you have just seen, make space for big emotions, talk about it with those you trust. Another helpful tip is to not let news be the first thing you see in the morning and the last thing you see before you sleep. Creating a healthy balance between both negative and positive news is key.

You can find out more on the topic of burnout HERE