Why is Safer Internet Day Celebrated?
Safer Internet Day is celebrated in February each year to bring awareness to the importance of a safe and positive digital world. Now, more than ever everyone is browsing through the media because of everything being done virtually, which means we must be more responsible and careful. The internet alone is not the main concern for a poor mental health; however, the way we use it can negatively impact us. For example, it can cause an individual to lack confidence with their body image as they want to seek acceptance from their peers. Sometimes, we may forget that an image can be edited therefore the image does not reflect the way people really look. When we see an image, we think, “Oh, they have the perfect body/ I want that body/ She has the best face.” This can cause anxiety or depression and impact our self-esteem.
When was it first celebrated?
Safer Internet Day was first celebrated on February 6, 2004. It was developed under the first Safer Internet Action Plan.
How can we make the internet safer?
- Practice good communication
- Protect yourself and your information
- Be a good digital citizen
- Set privacy and security settings on your web services
If you or anyone you know may be in need of someone to talk to and live in the Chicagoland area, feel free to call Olive Branch Counseling Associates at (708) 633-8000 and speak to a professional.
Yadira, Graduate Intern
References:
Home – Safer Internet Day – BIK Community. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.
saferinternetday.org/
CounselingMatters.live 
Leave a Reply