How to deal with online bullies and trolls?

It is not uncommon nowadays to be attacked online by online bullies. Some mean-spirited people take a lot of interest in expressing their harmful and toxic views. These bullies spend a lot of time online and argue on harmless topics offensively too.

Since curbing your virtual presence is practically not possible in today’s world, here are a few steps you can take to save yourself from the Grind:

Avoid taking the remarks Personally

Although these people make sure that the negative comments have a unique personal touch for you, don’t take it personally. These people have their own issues in personality which often include Psychopathology too. There is a difference between expressing your resentment and tearing someone down completely to make yourself feel better. Understand that the behavior they are showing is about them and not about you.

Stop Indulging with them

When people show their resentment or views in a respectful and civil manner, only then engage with them. When they behave in a bad or disrespectful manner, use the ‘delete’ button. Do not absorb their toxicity. They have the right to express their views and you have the right not to listen to them too. Do not engage in hostility, instead use Mute, block, or delete whenever needed.

Focus on the Positive comments

Research shows that we attend to negative reviews and comments more than the positive ones. Even if the ratio of Negative to Positive comment is 1 is to 100, that one negative comment will bother you. Attend and embrace to the positive responses. You should be open to feedback in a proper manner and not disrespectful or dehumanizing manners.

Breathe

Find out some relaxing downtime for yourself as a part of self-care. Exercise, pray, meditate and take rest to keep things in perspective. Seek emotional support from your inner circle of friends, relatives, parents or spouse. Practice and deal with these situations with grace and Patience.

Know Dr Prerna Kohli