The mainstream-- and mainstream media-- can definitely have a depressing effect on people, with continued exposure. I guess they just follow the old truism of newspapers: *"If it bleeds, it leads."*

Why we-- as humans and global citizens-- seem to think we get a bigger shot of endorphins from tragedy than from joy remains somewhat of a puzzle to me. Personally, I prefer the light... while not forgetting that the darkness IS part of the truth of existence.