Why Graphic News Stories May Not Be Safe for Everyone
Psychology Today
by Marwa Azab Ph.D.February 19, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Graphic news stories, particularly those involving disturbing details like the Jeffrey Epstein case, pose risks to certain individuals. These stories can be harmful to three main groups: Highly Sensitive People (HSPs), hyperphantasic individuals, and trauma-exposed individuals. Each group reacts differently due to their unique traits or past experiences.
Highly Sensitive People (HSPs) are naturally more sensitive to sensory stimuli, leading to overwhelm when exposed to graphic content. Their deep processing nature can cause emotional residue from such material, affecting daily functioning and relationships.
Hyperphantasic individuals experience vivid mental imagery, which can transform graphic details into intense visual scenarios. In extreme cases, this might lead to hallucinations or dissociation, blurring reality with the depicted horrors.
Trauma-exposed individuals, especially those
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Originally published on Psychology Today on 2/19/2026