Prioritising mental health amid political trolling on social media

The relentless onslaught of online abuse eventually drove her to attempt suicide, resulting in serious injuries. Despite her valiant battle for four days, she succumbed to her injuries at the Guntur Government Hospital on Monday, 11 March.

Guntur Superintendent of Police (SP) Tushar Dudi, Tuesday, 12 March, said that the language used by the trolls against Geethanjali was too vile to be “put in front of the media”, hinting at its inappropriate nature.

This tragic episode underscores the dire repercussions of political trolling, emphasising the urgent need for responsible online behaviour.

With the general elections on the horizon and social media evolving into a battleground for political debates, it becomes imperative to acknowledge the detrimental impacts of cyberbullying on one’s mental health.

Also Read: Politically motivated vicious trolling drives Andhra woman to suicide

Social media — where opinions are trolled

In the realm of social media, India stands as a landscape teeming with opinions on a plethora of topics — from biryani to cricket to cinema, and certainly on matters of governance and politics. People feel compelled to share their viewpoints as these issues directly affect their daily lives.

“They seek validation and a platform to express themselves, and social media provides that public square where they can voice their opinions. The reason for sharing political and governance views on social media is simple: people want to be heard. They crave acknowledgment for their perspectives, knowing that these issues are intertwined with their very existence. Opinions flow from all corners — left, right, centre — and it’s inevitable that not everyone will find satisfaction in them,” Hyderabad-based psychologist Dr Pragya Rashmi tells South First.

She adds that unlike physical protests, where one can throw a stone and retreat, expressing oneself on social media feels safer as individuals are not physically present.

“It’s akin to putting up a poster on a wall, but with the added option of likes, comments, and shares. Positive responses can boost confidence, but the flip side is the onslaught of negativity from those who disagree,” says Dr Rashmi.

The fear of missing out (FOMO) often drives individuals into participating in discussions even when they may not want to.

“However, engaging in such debates exposes them to trolling, which can take a heavy toll on mental health. From depression to anxiety to physical ailments like headaches and stomachaches, the impact of online harassment can be severe and pervasive,” Dr Rashmi explains.

Research indicates that cyberbullying and social media trolling can lead to disrupted sleep, diminished self-esteem, depression, self-harm, suicidal ideation, and even suicide.

Also Read: Police trace accounts that trolled woman who died by suicide after praising YSRCP

The trolls under the social media bridge

The trolling phenomenon over social media in India stems from a multitude of factors, including political differences, religious and communal tensions, scrutiny of celebrities, discussions on social issues such as caste and gender, the anonymity and impunity afforded by online platforms, group mentality, and the pursuit of entertainment or amusement.

Additionally, trolling can be fueled by misinformation and fake news, contributing the polarisation of online discourse. These factors often intersect, creating an environment where individuals feel empowered to engage in aggressive and offensive behaviour online, resulting in heated debates, personal attacks, and the proliferation of negativity.

To survive in the social media milieu, mental health experts emphasise that individuals must be prepared for trolling if they wish to voice their opinions.

The impact of online trolling on one’s health can be significant. It often leads to heightened stress levels, as individuals constantly feel under siege or scrutinised. This stress can manifest as anxiety, causing persistent feelings of nervousness and apprehension.

“Moreover, the constant barrage of negative comments and criticism can induce feelings of fear and threat, leading to heightened paranoia about one’s safety and well-being. Over time, this can contribute to the development of depression, as individuals struggle to cope with the relentless negativity and may begin to question their self-worth. Overall, the psychological toll of online trolling primarily manifests in heightened stress, anxiety, and depression, highlighting the detrimental effects on mental health,” Dr Daljeet Kaur, Consultant Psychiatrist at Continental Hospital in Hyderabad, tells South First.

“First and foremost, it’s crucial for individuals to cultivate self-awareness regarding their personality before expressing opinions, particularly on platforms like Twitter (now X). Writing opinions online might seem easy, but speaking out in person requires a different level of courage and conviction. Therefore, understanding whether one possesses the fortitude to stand by their opinions is paramount,” says Dr Kaur.

She adds that if one does possess this strength, then engaging in political discourse is acceptable. “However, it’s essential not to act impulsively. Opinions should be expressed thoughtfully, with consideration given to potential consequences. It’s vital to be prepared for the repercussions that may arise. Self-awareness plays a pivotal role here, as individuals must recognise if they are experiencing other stresses or mental strains that could impact their ability to cope with negative feedback,” says Dr Kaur.

Dr Rashmi stresses that being on social media is allowing others to get under your skin. “When posting comments or sharing opinions on social media, it’s important to recognise that your words may resonate with some individuals, while others may find them hurtful, depending on their sensitivity levels. Some may even attempt to provoke a reaction from you through any means necessary, and this can lead to unpleasant interactions. Therefore, individuals should be mentally prepared for such encounters,” she advices.

She adds that this doesn’t imply that one should refrain from expressing themselves, but rather that they should understand the dynamics of the platform and anticipate potential reactions. “Developing this awareness helps individuals navigate social media more effectively, allowing them to engage in discussions while minimising the impact of negative interactions on their well-being,” Dr Rashmi explains.

Also Read: Can India embrace WHO’s push for community-based mental health care?

How does one cope with trolling?

Coping with trolling requires individuals to assess their social support network, according to Dr Kaur. “Having trusted friends or access to helplines and cyber support services can be invaluable in navigating challenging situations. Understanding and utilising available resources — from technical assistance to psychological support — is crucial when facing online harassment. Seeking help from counsellors or support groups can prevent feelings of failure or regret and deter drastic actions like suicide,” she says.

She adds that if a person feels overwhelmed by a sense of failure or feeling trapped in a situation, especially if they begin to have suicidal thoughts, it’s crucial to seek help immediately.

“Numerous suicide helplines are available and government websites often provide resources for those in distress. You can reach out to a psychiatrist, psychologist, or visit a hospital emergency department. In India, suicide has been decriminalised, so individuals can seek assistance without fear of legal repercussions. Simply expressing your struggle and the need for help can prompt professionals to provide support, connect you with appropriate resources, or involve your family if necessary,” Dr Kaur explains.

She adds that it’s also important to avoid behaviours that impair judgement, such as excessive alcohol consumption or drug use, as they can exacerbate mental health issues. Lastly, she advices focusing on developing resilience and coping skills to better navigate challenging situations. Just as one upgrades their technical skills, investing in personal development is essential for anyone facing difficult circumstances.

Meanwhile, Dr Rashmi emphasises that an individual should also take the initiative to weed out people who are harmful to their mental health. “Like in an agriculture field, where a farmer takes out the weeds that grow, similarly, an individual has to weed out people whom they think are harming them — by blocking the people who comment negatively, or limit the comments,” suggests Dr Rashmi.

Studies have delved into the psychology of trolls, revealing that individuals who partake in trolling often demonstrate traits associated with psychopathy and sadism. Additionally, research suggests that responding emotionally to a troll’s behaviour may inadvertently reinforce their actions.

Therefore, it’s essential to understand the motivations and characteristics of trolls and consider strategies for mitigating their impact without inadvertently encouraging further trolling behaviour.

(If you need support or know someone who has suicidal thoughts, please reach out to your nearest mental health specialist or contact the helpline numbers of suicide prevention organisations that can offer emotional support to individuals and families. Tele-MANAS: 14416; Life Suicide Prevention: 7893078930; Roshni: 9166202000, 9127848584.)

(Edited by Kamna Revanoor)