The year is coming to a close, and what a year it has been. Our world has experienced some ups, and unfortunately a lot of downs. It is equally as unfortunate that the downs are the focus of the media these days, and that the downs are consuming all of our lives. Some of these downs are rightfully the focus of the media: people that have experienced natural disasters, such as the people of Puerto Rico need help and deserve to keep being brought up in the media.

The way our country, our leader, and other world leaders and nations have responded to our many recent tragedies speaks volumes. These tragedies, and the responses they have received have become the focus of many social media posts these days as well. It has been disheartening to see the way people have been responding to one another, the way humans have been responding to other humans.

In light of all of the sadness that has been occurring, I believe it is still possible to end 2017 on a positive note. With that being said, here are some ways to handle the negative and toxic posts that have been populating social media recently.

1. Don’t engage.

Everyone is entitled to their opinion, and I hold firm to this belief. If you disagree with someone, it is best not to respond. I know how hard this is, believe me, and I too am guilty of engaging small-minded people in circular arguments that don’t get anyone very far. While in the moment, it felt good to stick it to that person, I didn’t really gain anything from it. If anything, I let more negativity into my own life.

2. Spread messages of positivity.

It takes nothing to be kind to others.

3. Take a social media break.

Maybe deactivating every account is too much of a commitment for you. That’s okay, maybe take a baby step, and just delete all of the apps from your phone for a few days. This way, toxic and abrasive posts aren’t constantly the center of your universe. You can take some time to actually look around and enjoy the world around you.

4. Find another way to express your opinions.

Like I said, everyone is entitled to their own opinions! Find some other outlet, besides just a tweet or a Facebook post to express yours. Try and write for your school newspaper, or even the Odyssey! This way, you can fully articulate your ideas, and feel a sense of accomplishment, because your writings will have a huge platform and reach many readers!

While this year has not been an easy one, there is always hope for a better future. All of us have the responsibility to make the world a better place, in whatever way we can. Harness the energy you have when you’re about to react to a negative post on social media and think about what the impact will be. Will this post hurt someone else? Will it make you feel better? Is there a way for your voice to be heard by more people, in a productive and positive way? Think twice before you type friends!