How to protect your mental health from online trolls (UK Stats & Support)

In today’s digital age, social media can be a double-edged sword, while it connects us, it also exposes us to online trolls who thrive on negativity. If you’ve ever been targeted by hurtful comments, false accusations, or cyberbullying, you’re not alone.

Studies show that 1 in 5 UK internet users have experienced online trolling, with young adults (18-34) being the most affected (Ofcom, 2023) - (LINKED)

The emotional toll can be significant, leading to anxiety, depression, and even withdrawal from online spaces. But there are ways to reclaim your peace.

The psychological impact of trolling

Research from the UK Safer Internet Centre (2024) (LINKED) reveals:

42% of trolling victims reported increased stress
36% felt a decline in self-esteem
28% avoided posting online due to fear of backlash

Trolls often hide behind anonymity, but their words can still cut deep. Learning how to respond (or not respond) is crucial for mental well-being.

How to handle trolls & protect your peace

Nicola Millington’s book, "SWIPE: Mastering the Art of Handling Trolls and Protecting Your Peace," offers practical strategies to navigate online negativity. Key takeaways include:

Don’t engage: Trolls want a reaction, starve them of attention

Block & report: Use platform tools to silence abuse.

Curate your space: Follow positive accounts and mute toxic ones

Seek support: Talk to friends, family, or professionals if trolling affects your mental health

A spiritual perspective, armour up

For those who find strength in faith, Ephesians 6:10-18 reminds us to put on the "armour of God" to stand firm against negativity. Just as the scripture advises shielding ourselves spiritually, Millington’s book helps build emotional resilience against online attacks.

"Put on the full armour of God, so that you can take your stand against the devil’s schemes... and with your feet fitted with the readiness that comes from the gospel of peace." – Ephesians 6:11, 15 (NIV)

Where to get help in the UK

If trolling escalates into harassment or threats:

Report it to the platform and UK Safer Internet Centre
Contact mental health support via Mind (mind.org.uk) or Samaritans
Legal action: Persistent abuse can be reported to Police via 101

Online trolls may try to steal your joy, but you have the power to protect your peace. By setting boundaries, leaning on support, and using resources like SWIPE, you can navigate the digital world with confidence.

Have you dealt with online trolls? Share your coping strategies in the comments—let’s support each other!

Further reading:

SWIPE: Mastering the Art of Handling Trolls and Protecting Your Peace by Nicola Millington (Available online - https://www.marketingwithlovedigital.co.uk/swipeREVIEWS
Ofcom (2023) – Online harassment statistics
UK Safer Internet Centre – Cyberbullying & trolling reports

You’re not alone, share your story & support others

Online trolling can feel isolating, but your voice matters. By sharing your experiences, you not only reclaim your power—you also help others realise they’re not alone. Let’s build a kinder digital community together.

Join the conversation - "Have you faced online trolls? How did you protect your peace? Share your story in the comments below—your courage could be someone else’s lifeline."

Tag someone who needs to read this post or check out SWIPE by Nicola Millington.
Use the hashtag #swipebook #ProtectYourPeaceUK to connect with others tackling similar challenges.

Your story strengthens others
Every shared experience chips away at the stigma of online abuse. As Nicola Millington writes in SWIPE Mastering the art of hamdling tolls and protecting your peace" Let’s turn pain into purpose by fostering empathy and practical support.

Together, we can make the internet safer, one story at a time.