Escapism vs Reality: Balancing Mental Health & Global Awareness Today

Many escape harsh realities through entertainment, but true resilience comes from awareness and engagement with global issues, balancing mental health and proactive societal involvement.

The Escapist's Dilemma: Confronting Reality in a World of Entertainment

In today's fast-paced, career-oriented society, many people are unknowingly engaged in a daily mental battle. They live in a reality crafted by streaming giants like Netflix and Disney+, a reality often

Picture: NPO Kennis

disconnected from the true state of the world. This raises an important question: Is it fear that drives people towards these platforms, or is the actual reality too daunting to face? Are they unable to banish the harsh truths of everyday life from their minds, even as they try to sleep?

The Proximity of Conflict

Is the specter of war becoming too close for comfort, or has it never really left our consciousness? Despite numerous global conflicts—such as those in Gaza, Israel, Serbia, and Russia—many people seem disengaged. Conversations about television often revolve around misery, politics, and excessive advertising, yet seldom touch on the fear of new wars. When discussing current world events, those engrossed in Netflix often claim ignorance or express a desire to avoid such topics. Their focus is on enjoying life, not dwelling on "pointless" conflicts. This attitude suggests a widespread disengagement from both local and global issues.

Today's world seems increasingly fragmented, with individuals living in isolated bubbles. At home, they live private lives, avoiding external input. At work, they do the minimum required, ensuring it benefits them sufficiently. There is a pervasive belief that everyone should mind their own business. When things go wrong, the onus is on others to have been more vigilant. This mindset implicitly suggests that those who don't engage with platforms like Netflix are missing out, failing to take care of themselves.

The Justified Fear of Demons

Given the ongoing conflicts in Gaza, Israel, Russia, and Serbia, and the significant political involvement and sponsorship of these wars, the threat of escalation is real. Daily warnings abound, echoing the sentiments of those who lived through previous wars. For many older individuals, the memories of war remain vivid, disturbing their peace even at night. For these people, sleep often comes only with the aid of pills or other substances.

The horrors of war extend far beyond the battlefield. As illustrated in the book "Silent Fathers," written by the son of a World War II labor camp survivor, the trauma experienced during conflict often results in long-lasting psychological scars. The father's nightmares and silent suffering were passed down to his son, illustrating the profound and enduring impact of war trauma. The atrocities witnessed and endured left lifelong marks, not just on the victims but also on their families.

Disconnection from Global Issues

There is a growing concern that many people are becoming increasingly disconnected from global issues. This could be attributed to information overload, where the constant barrage of negative news leads to desensitization or deliberate avoidance. What might be perceived as selfishness could also be a form of self-preservation. Constant exposure to distressing news can be psychologically draining, leading individuals to prioritize their mental health by focusing on more immediate and controllable aspects of their lives.

It's unfortunate that so few people engage with these powerful stories or read books that highlight the lasting impact of war. The experiences of those who survived horrific labor camps should serve as a stark reminder and motivation to intervene in emerging conflicts. Yet, many prefer to escape into the worlds offered by Netflix, Disney+, and HBO. These platforms often feature violent and war-themed content, providing a sanitized version of reality that remains comfortably distant.

Escapism and Media Consumption

Many people turn to entertainment as a form of escapism. It provides a temporary refuge from the overwhelming realities of the world, including wars and political strife. This can be driven by fear or anxiety about current events or simply a desire to find joy and relaxation amidst the chaos. The allure of curated, often idealized worlds on platforms like Netflix or Disney+ contrasts sharply with the often harsh and chaotic reality. People may prefer these narratives because they offer control and resolution, unlike the unpredictable and unresolved nature of real-world conflicts.

Preparing for the Next Conflict

While these films and series may entertain, they do little to prepare people for the actual horrors of war. Reality, with its complexities and brutality, often proves more terrifying than fiction. As such, those who rely on entertainment as a means of escape might find themselves unprepared for real-world traumas, forced to process their experiences in silence.

The Psychological Impact of War

The psychological scars of war, as illustrated in the book "Silent Fathers," often linger long after the physical conflict ends. These traumas can affect not only those who experienced the war directly but also subsequent generations. The adage "prevention is better than cure" holds significant weight when it comes to conflict. Understanding and remembering the past, as well as recognizing the signs of emerging conflicts, are crucial steps in preventing future atrocities. Yet, the challenge lies in maintaining awareness and action in a world where many prefer to avert their eyes.

Balancing Awareness and Mental Health

It is important to strike a balance between staying informed about global events and protecting one's mental health. This balance can be challenging but is necessary to foster a more empathetic and proactive society. Encouraging people to engage with real-world issues, perhaps through more accessible and compelling storytelling, can bridge the gap between escapism and awareness. Developing psychological resilience can help individuals face harsh realities without being overwhelmed. This can be achieved through education, community support, and fostering open discussions about difficult topics.

What will be you choice?

In these turbulent times, the choice between engagement and escapism is more critical than ever. While entertainment offers a necessary respite, it is essential to remain aware and proactive about the world's challenges. Learning from the past, building resilience, and promoting awareness can help bridge the gap between escapism and reality. By confronting these issues head-on, we can better prepare for whatever the future holds.