Media Balance, Empathy, and Well-Being

The emotion of empathy brings out the most humane trait in all of us. The ability to show compassion is what fosters the goodness in humanity. However, too much absorbing other people’s sufferings and negative emotions can also cause a toll on us. Therefore, it is vital to find a balance between expressing empathy and taking care of our well being.

The flight attendant’s advice of “placing your own oxygen mask before you assist others” is a piece of metaphorical advice to this kind of situation, as it highlights our need of balancing our use of social media and assimilating everything that comes with it. We must first make sure we are in a state of emotional stability before we engross on the feelings of others. This doesn’t take away the importance of sensing concern and kindness towards others. This only highpoint the need for us to find a center where we can effectively be more empathic to others—while at the same time looking out for our well-being.