Global Trends

If you didn't want to read about Covid-19 again today, you're not in luck.

To be honest, Covid-19 has had the largest impact on social media than anything I have ever witnessed. Memes and content related to the virus come on a global scale. This isn't just limited to Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram - apps such as Ifunny, Reddit, and a large volume of videos on YouTube all have content either covering the virus or trying to remain light-hearted in this time of unease.

First and foremost, I don't want to sound apathetic to anyone who is affected or has had love ones affected by the virus. I wouldn't have written about this topic as a Global Trend because of the fear of misrepresenting the subject, however, one article from Northeaster.edu put my fears at ease. That article is titled: "One way to predict the spread of Covid-19? Follow the memes."

Before continuing on, read the article because it brings up many encouraging points that can at least bring some ease in this global state of panic. The largest point I want to get across is that,

"Memes about Covid-19 are keeping the public aware!"

Sure, many of these memes are incredibly silly and no one wants to see the same topic every day, especially one that is surrounded by fear and unease, but with hundreds of thousands of social media users engaging in content about the virus, we as people on a global scale have become more aware. We know the symptoms of the virus, we know areas in which we need to avoid, we even know how to properly stock up on supplies and not just buy a shopping cart full of toilet paper and hand sanitizer.

Personally, I bought a 20-pound bag of rice and 12 pounds of beans the Monday before Southern Arkansas University announced it's decision to move online for the remainder of the semester. I feel comfortable with food items in my house that I haven't had to go grocery shopping as often as I did before. I have ease at mind that I'm not in social contact with large crowds because I made decisions based upon what I saw on social media.

All in all, Covid-19 memes are not terrible. They aren't a means to desensitize the public or make people less apathetic. To laugh at a horrible situation doesn't make you a horrible person, rather, it is a documented coping mechanism. Honestly, I don't want to feel ashamed for laughing at these memes because it is a means for me to destress. Seeing Rick from Pawnstars buying toilet paper and hand sanitizer and all the TikToks with the "Its Corona time" song are enjoyable.

As the days go by in our self-implemented quartine, don't let the pressure of seeing Covid-19 on social media or on the news put you at unrest. Still take the time to enjoy yourself and laugh at some memes, but most important of all, keep yourself well informed.