3 Ways Facebook Drama is Harmful to Our Dogs
I took a break from my newsletter as I mourn with my friend. But no matter how sad I am, it's nothing like what my friend is feeling right now. We spend so much time on social media and a lot of that time seems to be fighting with strangers about things that don't matter - not when we compare the fleeting time we have with our dogs.
I no longer engage in social media drama because I can't bare to think of a petty argument taking time and attention away from my dog. Plus, the stress of it all isn't good for me or my dogs.
1 - Increased Anxiety
When we hold on to the anger, frustration, and stress from negative social media engagement, our dogs pick up on those emotions, which increases their anxiety.
2 -
Decreased Immune Function
Chronic stress can weaken the immune system over time, reducing the body's ability to fight infections and increase inflammation, making the body more vulnerable to illness and disease in the long run.
3 - Shorter Lifespan
The increased anxiety, inflammation, and weakened immune system will eventually lead to a shorter lifespan. Chronic inflammation can be a precursor to cardiac disease, gut issues, an autoimmune disease, and cancer.
Avoiding Drama on Social Media
I made the following changes to my social media activity, which has kept me out
of drama - for the most part.
I no longer join triggering discussions. If someone posts anti-raw content, for example, I keep scrolling. I've noticed that people aren't as open to different perspectives, so I save my comments for those who are interested in a discussion and scroll past the folks who
want to fight.
I set boundaries with colleagues and strangers. If someone leaves a negative comment on a post with the intention of hurting my feelings, I don't argue with them because it won't change their mind. I block them and move on because it's pointless to engage.
I don't join (or remain in) toxic groups. There's always going to be disagreements or the occasional snarky comment. But when someone's puppy dies and the comments are filled with people blaming the owner for feeding the wrong food, it's a clear sign that the group isn't for me.
I've been blogging for 15 years and during that time my anxiety grew because I kept diving into drama. I'm not telling you what to do. I'm sharing what I've done to make social media a fun place again. By doing these things, I'm no longer stressing my dogs out.
