How to Care for Your Mental Health in the Era of Internet Fame

The internet offers anyone the chance to skyrocket to fame with the right content. While the prospect of achieving followers, likes, and extra income can be appealing, internet fame can come at a cost. Finding yourself in the spotlight can translate to higher personal expectations and greater scrutiny, often from people you’ve never met. That’s why it’s so critical for content creators to know how to manage mental health challenges that can accompany a more visible public profile.

Keep reading to learn some vital strategies that can help you stay grounded mentally in the era of internet fame.

Draw a Line Between Your Personal and Public Life

Sometimes it can feel like the more personal details you divulge online, the more interest you’ll gain from your viewers. But while it may be tempting to be an open book all the time, it’s in the best interest of your mental health to establish boundaries. Trying to be “on” all the time can be draining, and it can expose those you love to attention they may not want.

Determine what parts of your life are not up for the public to see. If you have a romantic relationship, for instance, it’s probably best to keep that private. Or perhaps you don’t want people to see where or how you live, or you don’t want to engage with followers during weekends. Try creating a schedule for engaging with posts or creating content. That way, you can introduce more structure to your hours so you’re not constantly editing stories or planning posts.

Be Proactive with Therapy

Therapy is no longer stigmatized as something people reach for in desperate moments. Instead, therapy has become a way to proactively manage your mental health, including stressful moments and decisions. Content creators may find therapy especially useful in the internet age, where it’s easy to feel targeted by online critiques or a sense of pressure to please followers.

Access to therapy has improved with the advent of online therapy platforms, such as Rula. You’ll be able to find licensed and skilled professionals who can help you through video or phone sessions. Even if you’re living in a remote area, it doesn’t matter. The right platforms can ensure you’re connected with a therapist. And when you’re intentional about seeking regular help, you can avoid burnout and build mental endurance.

Connect with Other Creators

Content creators work in a unique niche that most people won’t understand. Connecting with other individuals in the business can be the best way to cope with some of the most common mental stressors. Other artists or creators can offer empathy and even suggestions to help you stay afloat amidst difficult online comments or personal anxieties.

New content creators can join online collectives and find mentors. Building a community can help you avoid feeling isolated or misunderstood. And forging connections with others in the business can ensure there’s always a helping hand within reach.

Know What Success Means to You

Ultimately, any content creator needs to develop a plan if they’re hoping for a sustainable career. Success looks different for everyone, so it’s critical to assess whether you’re meeting your definition of success. Does the content you're posting meet your expectations? Are you spending too much or too little time doing it?

You may need to carve out more time to edit video clips, for instance, if they’re not to the level of polish you want. Or maybe you need to create a schedule so you’re more regular with your content. Consistency is one of the best ways to build an audience, after all.

On the other hand, perhaps your work as a creator is all-consuming. You have to post and reply, and generate new content constantly. If you’re feeling overstimulated, you may need to step back before the stress mounts. Schedule blocks of time when you’re not online, or start a morning routine that avoids screentime. And consider taking a quiet weekend each month where you’re disconnected and focused on other activities that bring you joy.

Prioritize Your Mental Health

You can build a following and share your creative juices with the world on the internet. But the freedom can be overwhelming if you don’t establish boundaries and a clear work-life balance. Use therapy to stay grounded and connect with other content creators so you don’t feel alone. Learn how to step away and take time for yourself, even if it’s hard. When you make your mental well-being a priority, you’ll find your work as a content creator more rewarding.