The dangers of false information in relation to serious circumstances
Due to current events related to the coronavirus pandemic, we could not help but notice an increase in false information being circulated around social media. Like any other piece of information we encounter; be it true or false, this has an effect on our mental well-being and it is in our best interest that we know which sources to trust, and when it is time for a social media cleanse to help with our anxiety. Multiple sources and data have shown us that there is a correlation between social media usage and symptoms for anxiety and depression becoming more severe. Adolescents and young adults are specifically more susceptible to such negative effects due to the amount of time they spend on social media. Moreover, there has been a significant increase in fake news about the COVID-19 pandemic; and such fake news is presented and consumed through social media. Popular coronavirus news source Gerald Fenech wrongly predicted the amount of cases to be announced on Wednesday 1