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With news available 24/7, many Hawkesbury residents are feeling the mental strain of constant headlines about global conflict, political upheaval, and natural disasters. Experts say it is possible to stay informed without becoming overwhelmed and local strategies can help.
Professor Alexandra Wake, from RMIT University’s School of Media and Communication, says Australians are fortunate to live in a functioning democracy, but staying informed doesn’t mean consuming every distressing story.
“Many people get confused by the difference between social media and traditional public service news services. They aren’t the same. It’s worth avoiding social media if you feel anxious about the world,” Professor Wake said.
She emphasises that traditional news outlets, including ABC, SBS, and other public broadcasters, provide curated coverage that filters graphic material and maintains balance, helping viewers stay informed without being overloaded.
For locals in regional areas like the Hawkesbury, accessing reliable news is particularly important. Many residents rely on ABC radio, local newspapers, and community news services for updates on everything from national events to local council decisions, traffic alerts, and emergencies such as bushfires and flood warnings.
Professor Wake advises practical ways to consume news responsibly:
- Limit daily intake – check news at set times rather than constantly scrolling online.
- Subscribe to newsletters – local and national news digests provide key updates without constant exposure.
- Use curated programs – for example, ABC’s BTN offers news for younger audiences in a balanced way.
- Check sources – rely on credible outlets instead of social media feeds that can spread misinformation.
“Being part of civil society means staying informed, but no one needs to watch 24/7 news or constant war coverage,” Professor Wake said. “We have a responsibility as Australians to make decisions about the quality of the news we consume.”
For Hawkesbury families, the advice is especially relevant. Recent studies show that nearly half of Australians feel anxious about the state of the world, and over 40% have limited daily activities because of stress. By using trusted news sources and limiting exposure to distressing imagery, locals can remain informed while protecting their mental health.
Professor Wake, Program Manager for the Graduate Diploma in Journalism at RMIT, said: “We are lucky in Australia to have public service news outlets that provide trusted information. For regional communities, this access is crucial, especially during emergency situations or times of local concern.”
Practical tip for Hawkesbury residents: Tune into ABC Hawkesbury, follow trusted local newspapers online, and set a daily ‘news check-in’ rather than consuming alerts continuously. It keeps you informed while avoiding unnecessary stress.
