Katja Mia Opens Up About Online Trolls and Their Impact

In a candid discussion, television presenter Katja Mia shared her experiences with online trolls and the emotional toll it takes. Speaking on The Six O’Clock Show, she highlighted how confiding in her co-host, Brian Dowling, has been a crucial way for her to cope with the harsh realities of social media abuse. Both presenters have faced vile comments, prompting them to support each other through their shared experiences.

Katja explained that openly discussing the hurtful messages she receives helps her manage the impact of trolling. “It’s a way of getting it out, trauma dumping,” she said. “When you put yourself out on a platform, when you’re on telly, you’re going to get [trolled] no matter what you do.” This reality has led her to engage in conversations about the issue more frequently, believing that dialogue can serve as a powerful tool against negativity.

The rise of social media has changed the landscape of public interaction, and Katja noted a significant increase in abusive comments over the years. She remarked, “People are so comfortable being online. I grew up with Facebook and Instagram; that was my teenagehood. They don’t see you as human in a way, which is very weird, I know for myself.”

Her most challenging experiences with online abuse have come via TikTok, where anonymity allows users to hide their identities. “The worst comments I get are on TikTok because it is much easier to hide your profile, name, and identity,” she explained. This anonymity has emboldened some individuals to make hurtful remarks, particularly regarding sensitive topics like immigration.

Katja’s outspoken nature about her experiences as a refugee has attracted significant backlash. She candidly admitted that the level of abuse has made her reconsider her online presence. “It’s kind of caused me to pull back a little bit,” she stated. “I have received thousands of hateful comments about that, because there is such a weird climate in this country around immigration. It’s caused me to pull back on something which I’ve always been passionate about, which is weird.”

Despite the challenges, Katja has developed strategies to navigate the complexities of life in the public eye. “You have to train yourself to have positive thoughts and thick skin,” she said. Her relationship with Brian serves as a source of comfort, allowing them both to vent and support each other through their experiences.

Working on The Six O’Clock Show provides a necessary distraction from negativity. Katja described the show as “light-hearted” and emphasized its role as an escape for both the audience and the presenters. “I love going into a show full of light and entertainment. It’s so uplifting,” she concluded.

The conversation around online trolling and its effects on public figures like Katja Mia underscores the need for greater awareness of mental health in the digital age. As social media continues to evolve, the impact of anonymous comments remains a significant concern for many, highlighting the importance of community and support in overcoming adversity.