In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, I tuned into a podcast featuring a doctor discussing his experiences and offering advice on staying healthy during this unprecedented time. It was late March, and the world was still grappling with limited knowledge about the virus. The doctor repeatedly warned that conspiracy theories would begin to proliferate, predicting that they would ignite increased anxiety and worry in the public.
He was spot on. As I later observed, conspiracy theories have exploded online, and the effect has been nothing short of alarming. According to Time, “As COVID-19 spreads globally, misinformation about the virus is also escalating at an alarming rate.” A prime example is the viral video from a documentary titled “Plandemic,” where discredited scientist Dr. Judy Mikovits made outrageous claims about vaccines harming the immune system. Though platforms like YouTube and Facebook have taken down the video, the harm had already been done, paving the way for other bizarre theories to gain traction.
You may have encountered some of these wild ideas yourself. Friends have sent me messages claiming that Bill Gates orchestrated the entire situation, or that COVID-19 vaccines will implant microchips to control the population (seriously?). There are even those who insist that the virus was engineered in a lab as a bioweapon, or that it results from 5G technology—despite the fact that countries without 5G are also affected.
What many fail to recognize is how triggering these conspiracy theories can be. We’re all trying to navigate our new roles as remote workers, teachers, and caregivers, while juggling heightened stress levels and sleepless nights. Whenever I receive texts about how COVID-19 is linked to GMOs or that it’s all a hoax to instill fear, my mind races and I feel more despondent, not because I believe in these theories, but because they reflect a disturbing mindset. These are the same individuals who might disregard public health guidelines, wandering around without masks as if nothing is amiss.
I’ve had to tell a few people to stop sharing their conspiracy theories with me. It’s detrimental to my mental well-being—I don’t care how strongly they believe in their fabricated narratives. They need to keep that nonsense to themselves because all they’re doing is sowing discord and negativity.
Dr. Emily Davis says, “Conspiracy theories fill in gaps where science currently lacks satisfying answers. In times of fear and isolation, misinformation offers a false sense of control.” Social media is the breeding ground for many of these theories, but we all know someone convinced they have a deep understanding of this virus, despite their shaky grasp of biology. Self-proclaimed experts are flooding platforms with misinformation that directly contradicts the guidance of educated professionals.
So here’s the deal: keep your conspiracy theories to yourself. If you want to think that the COVID-19 death toll is inflated or that car accidents are deadlier than the virus, that’s your prerogative. But don’t force your views on others or try to draw them into your rabbit hole.
Right now, our priority should be saving lives and preserving our mental health. While conspiracy theories might give you a false sense of control, sharing them with friends or family only adds to the collective anxiety. You’re not helping anyone by spreading doubt and fear.
If you’re feeling anxious and lost (and let’s be real, who isn’t?), Dr. Davis suggests turning to reputable sources like the CDC and HHS for accurate information. These are the organizations where real scientific and medical professionals share their findings.
You’re free to hold any beliefs you wish, but if you’re presenting them as if they’re backed by solid evidence, you’re contributing to the problem. Unless you can substantiate your claims with credible facts, it might be best to step away from the keyboard and find a new way to occupy your time.
For more insights, check out our post on navigating misinformation during these challenging times at Home Insemination Kit. And if you’re looking for authoritative guidance, Intracervical Insemination provides valuable information on this topic. Also, for excellent resources related to pregnancy and home insemination, visit Parents.
In summary, it’s crucial to be discerning about the information we consume and share, especially during a crisis. Misinformation can provoke unnecessary fear and confusion; staying informed through credible sources is essential for our collective well-being.