I think he was being kind. While not everyone would agree with this, my lived experience is that the "news" or news media is rarely useful, often stressful and significantly more bad than good in terms of its impact on my mental well-being and focus.

Having said this, there are two areas that keep people attached to the news: a concern about become uninformed or being (or being perceived as) apathetic to the problems people face in the world.

Afraid of being uninformed? Read books on current topics.

Afraid of becoming apathetic? Donate to the non-profits that are positioned to do the most good in the areas of your concern.

Boom -- now you are informed and helpful while also undistracted and undisturbed by unhelpful, advertiser-driven news media.