One of the most insidious effects of geopolitical conflict is the spread of propaganda—manipulated information designed to provoke fear, loyalty, or hatred. When every channel, poster, or post becomes a tool of influence, it’s not just politics that suffer—our minds do too. Misinformation can warp reality, polarize societies, and create deep internal confusion, leaving individuals unsure of what’s real, who to trust, or how to act.
To maintain your sanity in an era of weaponized narratives, the first step is slowing down your consumption of information. Read less, but read better. Fact-check, cross-reference, and avoid emotionally charged content that demands instant reaction. Ask: Who benefits from me believing this? Cultivating critical thinking is your mental firewall against manipulation.
Secondly, recognize the emotional hooks often used in propaganda: fear, anger, pride, shame. When you feel triggered, pause. Is this an emotional response, or a reasoned one? Taking even ten seconds before reacting can prevent you from being swept into narratives that do not serve your truth.
Also, make time for media detox. Being informed is important, but constant exposure can create anxiety and fatigue. Step outside, speak to real people, do things with your hands. These acts reconnect you with tangible reality—the one outside of screens and slogans.
Lastly, seek out voices of nuance. Extremes shout loudest, but the truth often lives in the middle. Sanity isn’t found in certainty—it’s found in curiosity, humility, and the courage to hold conflicting truths at once. In a world of spinning narratives, keeping your mind clear is not just wise—it’s revolutionary.
Kanishka