Digital Shadows: How Cybersecurity Breaches Impact Mental Health

Cyber attacks have become a global alarming phenomenon, impacting not only data integrity and financial security but also mental well-being. The current research analyzes the psychological effects of cyber attacks, specifically anxiety, stress, depression, and social isolation experienced by victims. The study indicates the growing need to incorporate mental health interventions in addition to traditional cybersecurity practices. Major findings are that a substantial majority of victims of cyber attack report higher anxiety, depression, and symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). In addition, the article reviews coping styles like professional counseling, self-care action, and support systems within workplaces. Finally, this paper promotes the utility of incorporating psychological resilience into cybersecurity policy. Recommendations include in the future examining long-term mental health outcomes of cyber attack and the embedding of combined cybersecurity and psychological support systems. Addressing cybersecurity from both technical and mental health perspectives can build a stronger and more psychologically resilient virtual society.