Use social media first and foremost as a way to connect with family and friends during a time when you might be feeling isolated. If you log on to Twitter, Facebook, Instagram, or Reddit for news as well, be smart about it. "While it's important to stay abreast of the developments, it's most unhelpful to consume every bit of news provided," Mead told POPSUGAR. Follow a few verified news outlets that you trust, as well as the Centre For Disease Control and the World Health Organisation, for news that's accurate and up to date. It's fine to unfollow or block sources that are only causing you anxiety.
Many of the mental health professionals we talked to recommended setting certain times of the day to check your news feeds and social media, limiting yourself to one to three scrolls per day. "Each person's tolerance will be different, but the key is to notice how you feel before and after watching the news and adjust accordingly," Mead said.