Coping with exposure to violent videos online

SALT LAKE CITY — As footage of the fatal shooting of Alex Pretti by Immigration and Customs Enforcement circulates online, just three weeks after Renee Good was killed, mental health experts warn that repeated exposure to violent videos and images can take a toll on viewers.

They warn that such content can lead to anxiety, fear, anger, and even trouble sleeping or nightmares.

"Whether or not you have a formal anxiety disorder, it can still generate a lot of anxiety that can cause a lot of problems," said Dr. B. Todd Thatcher, vice president of medical services at Valley Behavioral Health.

While it's important to stay informed, it's also OK to take breaks from social media. Experts recommend engaging in activities you enjoy to help reduce stress, like hobbies or exercise, and nurturing real-life connections.

"Talking with other people really is key," Thatcher said. "Your neighbors, your church members, your friends, your family members — find common ground, because there's a lot of healing that can happen just by your interactions with people."

If stress or anxiety begins interfering with daily life, like making it difficult to concentrate on work or school, it may be time to seek additional support.

"If you are becoming distracted by your worries or concerns, find someone to talk to, process with. That may be a therapist — you may need to go talk with someone who professionally can be able to walk you through that," Thatcher said. "There's no shame in going and asking for help."

Thatcher adds that the same guidance applies to parents if they notice changes in their children's mood or behavior. While children and teens may not fully understand what they're seeing, their questions can be opportunities for parents to talk openly, listen and offer reassurance.

"With the child, you're going to have to help them not only to not be exposed to this material, but also then how to process or deal with it when they do get exposed," he said.

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