DANIEL MCCLOUD

There have always been debates as to the benefits of vaccines. This discussion intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic and remains a topic of ongoing conversation. As with most discussions, the rationale for or against is along political party lines. Whatever stance you take regarding the need for vaccines, know that the ability to stay healthy is the most significant challenge that we all have, despite our best efforts.

However, you should know that despite your views on preventive medicine, there’s a new and deadly syndrome that is sweeping the country. A syndrome that is afflicting individuals at an alarming rate. Currently, there appears to be no cure, and while not invariably fatal, it can have harmful consequences. Like Social Media Validation Syndrome, it is also a psychological condition that creates a dependence on “likes, comments, and shares.” While the Social Media Validation Syndrome is a real condition, and out of respect and empathy for those that suffer from it, for my satirical commentary, I will refer to my phenomenon as the “Hit Like Virus” (HLV).

Symptoms of this malady strike those in most need of affirmation or those seeking to divide, a unique and interesting contradiction that shows the intersectionality of those with real needs and those seeking attention. The syndrome is transmitted mostly indirectly through intermediate sources such as TikTok, Facebook, Twitter, and other social media platforms. The electronic transmission enables the rapid spread of this syndrome. Because of the nature of this syndrome and the exponential growth of technology, this syndrome can affect hundreds, even millions, within a few hours, with just the click of a button.

Some who are afflicted with the syndrome experience increased courage and a propensity to say things that may or may not be true, or which they may not speak in public. Those who fall sick with the syndrome can also experience emotions ranging from extreme adverse reactions, such as depression, when they don’t receive likes and clicks, to extreme euphoria when they do.

The euphoric state that results from supportive feedback of positive or negative social media posts can be addictive, leading to a cycle of posting and reacting. The addictive nature of the syndrome spreads when introduced in a hyper-political environment, where a type-first, think-later mentality circumvents honest dialogue.

Other known effects of the syndrome include overdependence on social media, which can have a reverse effect. For instance, in seeking validation, some users experience the opposite. Those suffering from the HLV can also experience negative comments and feedback from viewers, thus perpetuating the need to further seek validation by choosing more, therefore spreading the syndrome.

Other symptoms of the HLV include the spreading of hate and vitriol designed to gather support and acknowledgement, which, in a twisted sense of irony, leads to the self-affirmation needed to continue the hate. The effects can be all-consuming as nothing is off limits. As tragedies are shared not for constructive dialogue, but for clicks and likes, society’s social ills are never discussed or resolved.

Meanwhile, the virus spreads. Ways to address this virus are numerous, but with considerations such as free speech and Artificial Intelligence, this condition remains challenging. However, in a hypothetical world, vaccines of large doses of empathy and understanding, along with direct, open, and honest conversations, could slow the progression of this virus. One thing is undoubtedly true: the virus affects anyone, regardless of race, gender, or political affiliation. We can only do our part, not only to protect ourselves, but also others as well.