It is often overlooked that journalism is a profession with one of the highest risks for mental health issues.

 

The reasons include constant exposure to traumatic information, the necessity of being at the epicenter of the most challenging events, unstable and intense work schedules, and the inability to "switch off" from the news cycle.

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According to our study,

• 9 out of 10 media professionals exhibit symptoms of depression.

• 8 out of 10 show symptoms of an anxiety disorder.

• 64% of journalists have experienced a traumatic event, and 44% suffer from intrusive, unwanted memories of such events—a clear indicator of PTSD risk.
   

 

This means one thing: the specific nature of journalistic work leaves a mark, and it demands attention.
 

Data was collected as part of the Mental Support for Media (MSM) program, which has been implemented for over four years by the Souspilnist Foundation in partnership with the Braincult Center for Development and Psychotherapy. During this time, support has been provided to over 70 newsrooms; more than 2,500 journalists have utilized various psychological support opportunities, and over 700 journalists have received psychotherapeutic accompaniment.
 

We know what works. According to the MSM program impact assessment:
 

• 83% of journalists reported a decrease in symptoms of depression,

• 77% noted a reduction in anxiety disorder symptoms,

• 73% experienced a decrease in burnout levels.
   

 

"A journalist's mental health is not just a personal matter, nor is it merely about an individual family or a team's efficiency. It is about the quality of information that society receives. It is the ability to work without re-traumatizing oneself or the audience. It is the foundation for our society's resilience, as the choices each of us makes are based on information," notes Anastasiia Nizhnik, psychologist and MSM program coordinator.
 

If you are a newsroom manager or responsible for team well-being, contact us to learn more about the conditions and opportunities to care for your team.
 

Mental Support for Media is the only program in Ukraine providing comprehensive psychotherapeutic accompaniment for journalists and newsrooms. We provide diagnostics, training, individual consultations, and recovery for journalists.