Jenna Ortega Shares Sickening Reason Why She Deleted Her X Account
"It’s terrifying. It’s corrupt. It’s wrong."
At 21, the limelight is nothing new for "Wednesday" star Jenna Ortega. The young actress started in Hollywood as Harley Diaz in Disney Channel's "Stuck in the Middle."
Her star has steadily risen since she was cast as young Jane in CW's "Jane the Virgin." However, her breakout role in the reboot of "The Addams Family" cemented Ortega as one of the up-and-coming talents that TV and film buffs should look out for.
The "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice" actress recently spoke about experiencing harassment online as part of the press tour for the anticipated film. Ortega is no stranger to being dragged online.
She has been part of the roster of young female stars that social media "trolls" target alternately. From being outspoken about social injustices to being labeled as "not Latina enough," Ortega has faced her share of controversies.
In her interview with The New York Times, Ortega revealed that those issues were a walk in the park compared to the harassment she experienced on X, formerly Twitter. The actress disclosed that she deleted her account after the overwhelming response from the general public to "Wednesday" exposed her to unsolicited messages on social media.
Ortega mentioned that she was 14 when she was first encouraged to create a Twitter account to build her image. One of the first DMs she received was a photo of a man's privates.
Even more disturbing were the pornographic AI images of her as a child. Ortega stated, "It's terrifying. It's corrupt. It's wrong."
As she stars in the upcoming movie adaptation of Kazuo Ishiguro's sci-fi novel “Klara and the Sun,” Ortega said AI could be beneficial if used to help humanity.
Instagram: jennaortegaShe saw a story about scientists using AI to detect breast cancer four years before it became life-threatening.
Instagram: jennaortega"Let's keep it to that," the young actress said. It shouldn't be used to create deepfake photos and videos of people for pornographic purposes.
Instagram: jennaortega
The Impact of Social Media on Mental Health
Social media can significantly influence young people's mental health, as noted by Dr. Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist. He emphasizes that while platforms can foster connection, they can also amplify feelings of inadequacy and anxiety.
In Jenna Ortega's case, deleting her account could be seen as a protective measure against these detrimental effects. Research shows that taking breaks from social media can lead to improved mood and lower anxiety levels, making it a valuable strategy for many users.
Dr. Kelly McGonigal, a health psychologist, highlights the significance of self-care in today’s hyper-connected world. She asserts that prioritizing mental health is essential for anyone, particularly public figures facing intense scrutiny.
Ortega's choice to step back from social media could inspire others to reassess their own digital habits. Implementing regular self-reflection and seeking support can empower individuals to navigate their online presence more mindfully and maintain their mental well-being.
Ortega stated that the influx of those images of her after the success of "Wednesday" led to her departure from the social media platform.
Instagram: jennaortega
Now, she spends as much time as possible away from her phone.
Instagram: jennaortega
Jenna Ortega's and Chappell Roan's experiences shouldn't be normalized. These illegal images and troubling interactions with so-called fans shouldn't be condoned or tolerated.
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Dr. Terri Orbuch, a relationship expert, argues that emotional safety is crucial in any public domain, especially for young celebrities like Jenna Ortega. She points out that navigating fame comes with unique challenges, including public scrutiny and personal attacks.
Ortega's decision to delete her account can be viewed as a proactive measure to create a healthier emotional environment. Experts suggest that cultivating supportive communities, both online and offline, can help individuals manage the pressures of social media effectively.
It's horrifying what she went through, even with her mom, who Ortega said watched her like a hawk, especially when she was a child actor.
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It's wise for Ortega to spend her time in random gardens and going for walks instead of doom-scrolling on social media.
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Unfortunately, technology is progressing too quickly for legislation to catch up.
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Understanding Digital Well-Being
Experts in technology and mental health suggest that awareness of digital well-being is increasingly important. Cal Newport, a productivity expert, advocates for a more intentional approach to technology use, urging individuals to evaluate how online interactions impact their lives.
In light of Ortega's experience, he recommends setting clear boundaries for social media engagement, such as designated offline times to reduce stress and improve overall well-being. This practice not only enhances focus but also fosters deeper connections in real life.
Some people are far too comfortable doing illegal things online because of their anonymity.
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Jenna Ortega said those photos and messages made her feel uncomfortable and disgusting. Somehow, even after she spoke up, she still received suggestive replies in her comment section.
Ortega was not the first actress to receive this kind of treatment online; sadly, she will not be the last. In jest, some people suggested that everyone should delete their X accounts in protest, as it has become an even worse cesspool than when Ortega was active on it.
Professional Assessment & Guidance
In conclusion, Jenna Ortega's experience underscores the complexities of managing mental health in the digital age. Experts agree that while social media can offer connection, it often comes with significant emotional costs. By prioritizing self-care and setting boundaries, individuals can foster a healthier relationship with technology.
As the conversation around digital well-being evolves, it’s crucial for young artists and influencers to advocate for their mental health. Ultimately, the lessons learned from Ortega's decision can serve as a guide for others navigating similar pressures.