It is good to be a skeptic. Regularly questioning and doubting what we read and hear is normal and healthy. In fact, skepticism is an indispensable trait and a primary characteristic of critical thinking.
There is a chasmic difference, however, between skepticism and suspicion.
Undoubtedly, we all get suspicious at times, but some of us are firmly convinced that behind virtually everything there is malicious intent or an ulterior motive. Such unbridled suspicion is surely a sign of insanity.
Unfortunately, among the people who posses this perverted mindset are prominent, influential figures who incessantly disseminate litanies of lies and unsubstantiated claims, spreading constant fear and validating the irrationality of their followers.
It is certainly crucial to be cautious in current times—a world rife with unscrupulous opportunists in places of power preying on the unsuspecting masses. Yet, one need not abandon Reason to remain vigilant and avoid falling victim to those willing to inflict harm in order to achieve their ends.
In the age of knowledge and information, espousing and regurgitating ridiculous theories as a means of safeguarding oneself or the public, is not only utterly unnecessary and irresponsible, but inherently destructive.
One who seeks truth invariably employs Reason as a central guide and tool by which he attempts to understand the world. Accordingly, he avoids that which is harmful—not by listening to fear-mongers, but by heeding evidence, which is generally abundant.
As opposed to skepticism, habitual suspicion has little to do with critical thinking; it is rather the result of an emotional imbalance, which could have been engendered by various factors, including unresolved trauma. Thus, the sooner this internal distress is resolved, the sooner we can return to sanity.