It looks like there’s a storm in the air. Almost daily, we can observe manifestations and incidents related to an overflow of poorly channeled emotions. It is as if a new virus, very contagious and this time affecting our emotional health, is spreading insidiously. Is there a remedy?
People have short fuses and getting very angry has become fashionable. The frustration that often fuels this type of overreaction seems pervasive. This kind of ambient violence, which previously was not socially accepted, now seems to have become normal because it’s too often trivialized.
What is the responsibility of social networks?
Are they the after-effects or collateral damage linked to this interminable pandemic that has eroded the capital of empathy and tolerance of some? Is it social networks that allow, in relative anonymity, aggression and intimidation?
Polarization of opinions, spreading of false information, exacerbated resentment, harassment, hatred, etc. This toxic climate certainly has harmful repercussions for the most vulnerable and contributes to amplifying their anger and their uneasiness. In this context, no wonder the tension is rising and so many people are exploding. In some cases, these overflows go beyond the porous borders that exist between the virtual and the real, with all the consequences they imply.
The sense of ethics has become an elastic principle for many Internet users on different platforms. Users channel their frustrations there and let off steam without measuring the impact of their words or actions. Many have lost their moral barometer and their sense of citizenship. It has become a valve, an ideal outlet to spit out its venom.
Algorithms also have something to do with it, constantly bringing us back to what can support our beliefs and helping us validate them. They also maintain our cognitive biases and our prejudices by blinding us and letting us glimpse only a limited or partial version of the world.
Expressing disagreement on a particular subject, for example, is completely acceptable and can even lead to interesting debates in some cases. Doing so with disrespect or in the form of personal attacks is, however, reprehensible.
Anger is a necessary emotion
Felt in different situations such as injustice or a threat that we may face, anger is a natural, normal and necessary emotion. When channelled well, this strong emotion can help us mobilize our energy and our strengths to allow us to achieve our goals. It optimizes our motivation and our courage. Anger is fuel for change.
On the other hand, when anger is poorly decoded and used, it can exacerbate our aggressiveness and lead to violent behaviour. It then turns out to be harmful for ourselves or for those around us.
So should we stop being angry? Of course not! But being constantly angry is not normal and can even greatly undermine our mental health and harm our interpersonal relationships. There are many resources to help you improve your ability to manage anger and increase your emotional intelligence quotient. Do not be afraid to use it if necessary to calm your inner volcano.
How to find serenity?
Should we abandon social networks? No, not necessarily, because they are and will remain great tools for communicating with our loved ones. In some cases, they can even be very effective in leading struggles related to social justice and instilling more solidarity in communities affected by difficulties of all kinds.
However, if you realize that social networks cause you more stress and discomfort, it might be wise to consult them less and opt for a temporary or permanent disconnection.
At all times, civility, respect and courtesy should define our actions. And of course, benevolence, a fashionable word but so necessary in these turbulent times, should live with us more. These are the guardians of our serenity.
If you need help managing your anger
- CAF members and Public Servants Employee Assistance Program: 1-800-268-7708
- Staff of Non-Public Funds Employee Assistance Program: 1-844-671-3327
- Your CLSC (local community service centre) can also refer you to community organizations in your area
