While the news energizes and thrills some and discourages and saddens others, all feel the extensiveness of its presence. Sometimes we fail to notice just how often we are exposed to the news, but after careful consideration, it becomes obvious that the news is virtually everywhere. Headlines appear on Twitter, many online newspapers are constantly available to everyone for free, and phones often have features that send users CNN notifications automatically. Many endorse the news fully by emphasizing its importance and encouraging everyone to keep up with it daily in order to become and stay valuable, informed citizens. Others criticize the news and avoid it entirely to avoid fear and negativity. Both of these groups of people need to make a change and balance their intake of the news to a healthy level. 

Avoiding the news entirely prevents people from increasing their intelligence and from living as valuable citizens who make informed decisions. The news can be unpleasant, especially because of tumultuous current events and political tension. It seems that every day, a new story surfaces about a shooting, attack or disharmony within the U.S. political system. While these stories are unsettling and occasionally challenging to read, it is vital to take in, understand, and interpret this information. If we as U.S. citizens fail to acknowledge such events, we will undoubtedly fail to form opinions and to make our voices heard. If disastrous events reach no one, we will be left with no one who cares or feels called to action. Simply ignoring the troublesome events that fill the news will result in a completely unaware public.

Just because it is important to engage in the news does not mean it is healthy to constantly bombard oneself with the news. As citizens, we should all know what is happening in our country, understand the implications, form our own ideas and plan how to act accordingly. However, I would encourage those who frequently read, watch or listen to the news to take a break from time to time. The news is often bleak, and while it is important to be informed, one should not sacrifice mental health or a positive temperament as a result. Even if it is just for an hour or two each week, turning off notifications, phones, TVs and computers can provide much-needed relief. A small rest and disconnection from the many forms of media is absolutely essential for one to maintain a positive, fresh attitude.

Now more than ever, it is imperative for us to know about and understand what is happening in the world, and the news is an effective resource for doing so. Simultaneously, now more than ever, amidst conflict and chaos, it is essential for us to keep upbeat, positive attitudes regarding our future. Thus, as is true for most elements of life, it makes the most sense to give oneself a balanced dosage of the news.