'A very distressing thing to witness': Experts explain psychological impact of seeing Minneapolis shootings

Psychologists and psychiatrists told ABC News that witnessing a death -- whether in person, via the news or on social media -- can impact mental health.

Over the last several days, many Americans have seen upsetting, and often violent, images and videos of protests in Minneapolis amid a flood of ICE agents entering the city for a federal immigration enforcement operation.

Research has shown that images of extreme violence can impact mental health, increasing symptoms of anxiety and depression.

Among the videos and images that circulated widely in recent weeks have been the fatal shootings of two U.S. citizens involving federal agents just 17 days apart: Renee Good and Alex Pretti.

Psychologists and psychiatrists told ABC News that witnessing a death can add an extra level of distress for some people and lead to long-lasting consequences.

Studies have shown the symptoms of depression and anxiety can increase when exposed to negative news.