Invalid Date · blog

Keeping yourself safe online

Now more than ever it is important to ensure that you are interacting safely online. It is sad that we will live in a world where being ‘always on’ through technology is both a curse and a blessing.

Back
Invalid Date

Keeping yourself safe online

Now more than ever it is important to ensure that you are interacting safely online. It is sad that we will live in a world where being ‘always on’ through technology is both a curse and a blessing. 

Social media and technology means that people can access us more easily, can engage with us, “talk” to us.  

It is vital to be extra vigilant, not only from a security perspective, but also to protect your mental health. The constant stream of unrealistic imagery and at times, the negative chatter all can impact how we feel. 

Here are some ideas to think about your safety: 

  • Always, always, always speak to someone if you feel that you are being spoken to online in a manner that is disrespectful or causing distress, please do seek out help if this happens to you. If you feel it is impacting your mental health, then it is vital to get help.  

  • Sometimes people might post things online that you find upsetting or disturbing. If you’ve seen something you’re worried about, you don’t have to cope alone. It can help to: Report it to the platform or website, especially if it involves violence or abuse. Avoid sharing or commenting on it, even if you want to say you disagree. Talk about what you’ve seen with an adult you trust. Remember, not everything you see online will be real. But if you’re not sure, it’s always okay to ask for support. 

  • People don’t always show what their lives are really like on social media. Photos can be staged, airbrushed or filtered. And people only show the parts they want others to see. 

  • Forget all the likes, it can feel important to know how many people have liked or commented on something you’ve posted. But focusing on it can leave you feeling like you’re not good enough. Remember that likes aren’t everything, and there are always other ways to build your confidence. 

  • Try posting positive comments to others and not responding to negative comments. Blocking and reporting bullying or abuse when you see it can help you to feel better. 

If you want to learn more about how you can stay safe, please reach out to your school’s key leads to seek help and support. Remember, you matter and those around you care and want to keep you safe.  

Share: