Searching for online emotional support: Be cautious of the results

As I launch this blog, I think about the endless array of information the internet provides; news, shopping, entertainment, tools and resources. Enter a simple search and millions of results pop up in a fraction of a second inundating us with options and choices. There is a go-to app or website for everything imaginable. Overwhelming abundance and availability creates a demand for anything and everything and a growing reliance on easy access. The line between want and need becomes blurred and we create expectations born of convenience. This level of access should heighten our caution and awareness; not lower our guard. Just because we read it online doesn’t make it true. Just because we can, doesn’t mean we should. Just because you can find it, doesn’t make safe or eliminate responsibility and the need for precaution.

The darker side of the internet creates an illusion of anonymity that welcomes predators and ensnares victims by casting a net to prey upon those who are curious, confused, lost, or simply seeking connection. Feeding on our deepest fears and insecurities, the most innocent of intentions can create mis-steps that may lead to deception, addiction and criminal activity. From pornography, trafficking, gambling, hate crimes to terrorism; the minefield of intolerance, cyber-crime and depravity has grown exponentially. Somewhere in between the helpful conveniences and the seedy underbelly lies an array of ambiguous and indiscriminate information that is unfiltered, uncensored and unproven. This is where we must be vigilant in a world of easy access and instant gratification. Our quest for an immediate return comes at a cost that requires we be discriminating in disseminating the validity, propriety and usefulness of everything we click on. Launch every search with a balance of healthy skepticism and an open mind; a notion of caveat emptor (let the buyer beware) and caveat lector (let the reader beware).

As I consider the intent behind this blog as one of many internet offerings; it is put forth with the same level of caution expressed above. When you consider the endless array of advice, self help, and short cuts; filter your findings judiciously. When it comes to emotional health care, consider what you are looking for and what you hope to gain… Insight, support, resources, advice, direction, justification? The purpose of this blog is to promote curiosity, initiate conversation, and encourage exploration around some of the most basic interpersonal and individual issues we encounter in everyday life. Because the internet has become the go-to for so many people searching for help, support, and answers for the more complex situations they face, an anonymous search cannot offer individualized care or connection or thorough resolution one would receive in the presence of a trusted friend or an experienced professional. So move forward with an understanding of what you hope to find. There are wonderful resources available online, from guided meditations to journaling apps, helplines to crisis intervention links. Emotional issues are painful, so it makes sense that we want help and we want it fast. Complex issues typically require more time and support than a search engine can provide. Please move forward with caution and never let a blog or article take the place of quality mental health care that only a qualified professional can provide!

Gina Waltmire, LMFT

Gina is a licensed marriage and family therapist practicing in Overland Park, KS