Abstract

This qualitative article explores the significant psychological effect of misinformation and conspiracy theories on individual mental health. Through a review of recent literature and thematic analysis, the study identifies critical areas of mental disturbance, including anxiety, distrust, paranoia, and Cognitive overload. It also addresses the social consequences of wide spread misinformation during global crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic. The article offers evidence from internal case studies and scholarly sources to emphasize the Urgency of combating of misinformation through public education, media literacy, and psychological resilience programs.

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