We've all heard these terms. While most consider them harmless, they can affect your health. Learning to tell the difference between fact and fiction can be a real boost, both mentally and physically.

What's the Harm?

When it comes to "fake news," the effects can be both immediate and long-lasting.

In most cases, a "fake news" story can rile up your emotions and change your mood.

Depending on the strength of your feelings, the story, and the reaction it gave you, can stick in your head, even after you find out it's false. 

Rumors and gossip can become harmful to your health.

It can bring things like:

• Exhaustion
• Anxiety
• Depression
• Posttraumatic stress disorder
• Panic attacks

What Can You Do?

Rumors, gossip, and fake news can make you feel helpless, angry, and very anxious. There are steps you can take to regain your power and your health.

To avoid fake news, you can:

• Beware of stories not being reported everywhere. A shocking, outrageous or surprising event will have another source. If it doesn’t, be suspicious.
• Try to find articles on the same topic, especially if it makes you upset. 

• When you come across a piece of gossip, a juicy rumor, don't share it, don't comment, and don't engage, don't respond. Cut them off -- block the calls and texts, and block them on social media.
• Don't engage with them. Don't forward the messages to friends. Most of all, don't believe whatever is being said about you.