Dear Editor
I am writing to express my deep concern about the harmful effects of trolling, negative speech, and the pervasive meme culture on social media, which has led to a disturbing rise in mental health issues and, in some tragic cases, suicide attempts.
In today’s hyper connected world, social media has become an inescapable part of our lives. While it offers opportunities for engagement and expression, it has also given rise to a toxic culture where people are mocked, belittled, and bullied. Memes and jokes that target individuals—whether celebrities, public figures, or everyday people—are shared widely, often without considering the psychological harm they may cause. What may seem like harmless humor can tear down a person’s confidence and self-esteem.
Countless individuals, particularly teens and young adults, have been victims of relentless trolling and cyber bullying. The anonymity of the internet often emboldens people to say things they would never say face-to-face. Negative comments, hate speech, and constant ridicule chip away at mental resilience, leading to anxiety, depression, and in extreme cases, suicidal thoughts. For some, the weight of these online attacks becomes unbearable.
Social media platforms must enforce stricter policies against hate speech while promoting positive mental health. We, too, must take responsibility by being more mindful of the content we share. We as individuals need to think twice before sharing or creating content that might hurt others, even if it seems like harmless fun. This is not a minor issue; it is a serious public health crisis.
I hope your platform can play a role in raising awareness and promoting healthier online behavior.
Sincerely,
Areeba Fatima Rao
Karachi