October is Mental Health Awareness Month, and it’s a good time to write about something many of us hear people complain about online every day but rarely name: the toll of obsessive behavior on social media.
I’ve read a post on Threads recently and I thought I was the only one who experienced such nature of harassment and unwanted obsession.
Social media rewards image. Likes, followers, and views can feed the belief that we deserve constant attention, and being rejected or ignored can feel like a personal attack. Some individuals react with jealousy or control.
But a big ego is often a thin cover for fragile self-worth. Needing to be admired, to win, or to have the last word can be a sign that someone feels deeply insecure underneath.
Insecurities are loud.
A note on labels: being obsessive or egotistical doesn’t automatically mean someone has a mental health condition, though in some cases it can be a symptom of one. Last year, I shared awareness on narcissistic personality traits. When it comes to recognizing real patterns, trust only the experts.
If you’re the one being stalked
Trust your discomfort. It’s valid.
Tighten your privacy settings and block the person
Alert the authorities, or report the behavior
If you recognize yourself in this
Notice the urge before you act on it. Ask, “What am I really feeling right now?”
Redirect the energy into something healing
Talk to a counselor or a mental health professional
Mental illness is not an insult. What we’re talking about are behaviors, and behaviors can be addressed, professional support is always available.
If you or someone you know is struggling, reach out to a mental health professional instead of giving advice that could only make the condition worse.
Respect other people’s space, and use that energy to finally find your own peace.
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