Journalists Under Fire: The Urgent Need for Mental Health Support

In the previous post, we explored the importance of trauma-informed approach for survivors of crises. But let’s not forget the journalists, often the first responders to these devasting events. These frontline workers, exposed to the traumatic experiences, sacrificed their mental health for the pursuit of timely and impactful news we crave. 

The recent Mental Health Summit in Journalism, held from October 8th to 10th 2024 by The Self-Investigation, highlighted the urgent need for mental health support for journalists worldwide. The Summit, with over 160 speakers and 2,000 participants, underscored the importance of breaking down stigmas, fostering a supportive work culture, and providing accessible mental health resources.

While the Summit covered a wide range of topics with more than 70 sessions, this post only focuses on the specific challenges faced by journalists working in high-risk areas. Even as the event has concluded, the ongoing global crises demand continued attention to the mental well-being of those who bring us the news.

Why journalists are vulnerable to psychological distress?

The opening session of the Summit, led by Mar Cabra – Co-founder of The Self-Investigation, underscored the alarming mental health crisis facing journalists. Statistics from countries like Canada, Ecuador, and Spain reveal that 60% of journalists report high levels of anxiety, while 20% show signs of depression. The prevalence of burnout and Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) further compounds the issue.

As Margarida Alpuim – a journalist and psychologist explained during the summit, the factors could include: Prolonged exposure to high-stress situations without adequate breaks; Excessive demands and high-performance expectations; Constant exposure to human suffering and the inability to fully disconnect from work; Lack of autonomy, top-down decision-making, and limited organizational support and; A culture that discourages open discussions about mental health. 

Investigative journalists are particularly vulnerable, facing constant threats and violence that can lead to severe PTSD and chronic stress. These challenges extend to journalists in exile and those struggling with financial insecurity, highlighting the precarious nature of the profession.

“Mental Health of Journalists in Exile: Facing Multiple Crises Simultaneously”

This session was presented by Vladimir Omelin, a gestalt therapist, co-founder of Form of Participation initiative in Lithuania and a data journalist. A recent study conducted by Omelin and his team revealed a concerning mental health crisis among Russian journalists forced into exile. Using Zung Anxiety and Depression Scales, the study found that more than 40% of these journalists exhibited moderate to severe levels of anxiety, depression and hopelessnees.

Exiled journalists face a unique set of challenges that contribute to their psychological distress. Immediately upon leaving their home country, they are confronted with the trauma of displacement, often fleeing under threats. The stigma of being labeled a “foreign agent” further exacerbates their sense of isolation and alienation.

Unlike traditional emigrants, who may experience a honeymoon phase followed by adjustment and acculturation, exiled journalists often plunge directly into a state of anxiety and distress. The constant fear for their safety and the uncertainty of their future prevents them from fully adapting to their new environment.

For many Russian journalists, their work is inextricably linked to their sense of self. Driven by a desire to make a difference, exiled journalists often overwork themselves, however, the inability to directly influence the situation can create a sense of helplessness and frustration, often leading to burnout. This relentless pursuit of change can lead to a vicious cycle of burnout, characterized by emotional exhaustion, depersonalization, and reduced professional efficacy.

As Vladimir Omelin noted, while the situation for many exiled Russian journalists has improved over time, particularly after the initial year of emigration, the psychological distress they experienced during this period remains a significant challenge. 

Psychological Rehabilitation of Ukrainian Journalists During the War: What Methods Work?

In this session, Lina Kushch, the First Secretary of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, sheds light on the immense psychological strain faced by Ukrainian journalists during the ongoing war. Since the Russian invasion, the organization has established a network of solidarity centers to provide support to journalists, with psychological assistance emerging as a critical need. Over half of the 4,500 journalists have sought assistance to cope with the trauma of war reporting.

Initially, despite recognizing the need for help, they often hesitated to seek professional support due to societal stigma. Lina emphasizes that mental health should be considered an essential aspect of journalist safety, alongside physical protection for a trip to war zones.

Julia Sorkova, an experienced war journalist in Ukraine, has firsthand experience of the psychological toll of covering conflict. She has covered evacuations, documented civilian casualties, and reported on the relentless shelling. 

“Of course Ukrainian journalists often have training in how to communicate with people who have traumatic experiences,” Sorkova notes, “but, unfortunately, we forget that Ukrainian journalists also have traumatic experiences, because we see dead bodies after shelling.” – Said Sorkova.

Sorkova herself has experienced the physical and emotional toll of reporting the massive missile attack in Kyiv in January 2024, which is considered the largest missile attack in the world. Following a period of intense work and sleep deprivation, she began experiencing episodes of losing consciousness and sought professional help through regular therapy sessions.

“Covering Gaza: The Mental Health Toll of Reporting in War Zones”

Yumna Eled, a journalist covering the war in Gaza, provides a poignant account of the immense psychological strain faced by those reporting from conflict zones. The constant struggle for survival, combined with the trauma of witnessing death and destruction, takes a significant toll on the mental well-being of journalists.

“We, as journalists, are labeled with our press vests and fresh helmets. We need these to guarantee our safety and protect our life, which we risk every time we go out into the field to report on places of bombardment to cover those events. Let alone the scenes we see as human beings and mothers: children killed in bombing, houses destroyed, people injured. It’s not normal for anyone, as a human being, to see [such scenes] on a daily basis with the intensity we’ve seen in Gaza.”

Behind the protective gear, journalists are vulnerable humans who worry about their physical and emotional safety, as well as the safety of their families. “I felt that I was a threat to my children’s lives, and I was a reason of fear for them,” she shares. “It’s not a feeling that I can get over easily as a mother.” The constant threat of violence and the recurring trauma of the war made it impossible for Eled to classify her experiences as PTSD. The ongoing conflict meant that the trauma was always present, making it difficult to heal.

She continues to highlight the crucial role of journalists in conflict zones, stressing the need for protection under international laws. Advice is offered to fellow journalists on the importance of speaking out about their experiences to aid in processing their trauma.

What are the solutions for journalist mental health in crisis?

Vladimir Omelin stresses the importance of providing exiled Russian journalists with opportunities for retreat and group support. These retreats should involve diverse participants, allowing journalists to disconnect from their work and engage in activities that promote relaxation and reflection. 

Natalia Malivayko, a psychotherapist and a clinical psychologist, emphasizes the need for comprehensive psychological support for Ukrainian journalists and their families. Natalia and her colleagues provide a range of services, including hotlines, webinars, group sessions, and psychoeducational workshops. Malivayko also highlights the importance of creating safe spaces where journalists can escape “the burn” or the constant stress of their work.

The summit also discussed the value of mental health training for journalists as an early intervention. By integrating psychological well-being into journalism education, future generations of journalists can be better equipped to handle the challenges of the profession.

Several organizations, including the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation, the Dart Center for Journalism & Trauma, and the Canadian Journalism Forum on Violence & Trauma, have developed a trauma-informed toolkit to support journalists’ mental health. These resources offer practical advice on self-care, ethical reporting, and trauma-informed practices.

To conclude, let’s turn to the words of Hans Henrik Knoop, a professor of positive psychology from the University of Aarhus in Denmark. He offers a unique perspective on adversity, suggesting that it can be a catalyst for growth and resilience.

“Constructive journalists are human beings, like us all, and human beings thrive in adversity,” he says. “We need adversity in order to get a good mental immune system that is able to withstand all the problems that are there.” 

Journalists often grapple with ethical dilemmas: Should they focus on the negative, or should they strive to inspire hope? Constructive journalism offers a powerful solution. By highlighting solutions and positive developments, journalists can inspire hope and empower their audience. As Knoop emphasizes, “We don’t need fake positivity, but we need realistic optimism… You don’t want to close your eyes with the problem but you could show the possibilities.”

For journalists working in war zones and exile, the challenge of finding and highlighting hope is even greater. Amidst the constant threat of danger, they must balance their own safety with the pursuit of truth. Despite these immense challenges, the power of human connection and the resilience of the human spirit can provide a lifeline. By creating a global network of support, the summit has reinforced the message that journalists are not alone in their struggles.

Chi Duong