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Self-protection
Engaging with social media and news reports can increase feelings of anxiety or stress - take care of yourself online! Use the news to stay informed, but limit your daily intake, especially with news items that increase anxiety. Feeling low? Avoid social media for a day. Engaging with those close to you via social media is fine, and can be a solace. If a message seems off, ask the person to clarify what they’re saying before responding in kind - online interactions can come across the wrong way, and escalate! Pause before you post or respond on a public forum, especially if you’re experiencing a strong emotional reaction. Is replying to a stranger online the best use of your time? What will it achieve? Keep personal information private. Don't publicly post sensitive information such as your date of birth, address or phone number.
Don't fall for scams or fake news. Keep to trusted news sources. If in doubt, Netsafe has good guidelines for helping you navigate the intricacies of the web: www.netsafe.org.nz
DON'T BE TOO TIMID AND SQUEAMISH ABOUT YOUR ACTIONS. ALL LIFE IS AN EXPERIMENT. THE MORE EXPERIMENTS YOU MAKE THE BETTER. RALPH WALDO EMERSON
22 FamilyCARE
www.wecare.kiwi