“Journalism and trauma” is a five-part series from Reporters Without Borders (RSF) exploring the impact of psychological trauma on journalists. This fourth article delves into the complexities of psychological trauma from catastrophic events and prolonged social conflicts, highlighting how these experiences shape societies and the journalists who report on these […]

“Journalism and trauma” is a five-part series from Reporters Without Borders (RSF) exploring the impact of psychological trauma on journalists. This last article provides insights from mental health experts on conducting interviews with survivors who have recently experienced extreme trauma, ensuring respect and minimal emotional distress for both parties. Interviewing […]

“Journalism and trauma” is a five-part series from Reporters Without Borders (RSF) exploring the impact of psychological trauma on journalists. This third article presents guidance from mental health experts on how journalists can assess their emotional states following distressing experiences and outlines four key steps to manage trauma. Working in […]

“Journalism and trauma” is a five-part series from Reporters Without Borders (RSF) exploring the impact of psychological trauma on journalists. This second article identifies trauma symptoms and discusses their effects on professional capacities. In 1998, a reporter who covered the China Airlines Flight 676 crash in Taiwan shared a harrowing […]

“Journalism and trauma” is a five-part series from Reporters Without Borders (RSF) exploring the impact of psychological trauma on journalists. It includes their work with trauma survivors, personal repercussions, and self-care strategies. This article examines some instances of trauma-inducing journalism work and how the industry addresses these situations. Covering violence […]

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) translated into Chinese the Handbook on Trauma and Journalism, published by the Dart Centre. This handbook provides journalists with advice on how to deal with trauma while reporting, with an emphasis on ethics, mental health, and safety.  The Dart Centre for Journalism and Trauma, part of […]

Online smearing targeting journalists can severely undermine their reputation and career. In this article, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) suggests strategies for journalists to protect themselves. A journalist’s reputation is one of their greatest assets. Online smearing, which consists of spreading false or misleading information about an individual, can seriously undermine […]

Many reporters throughout their career will have to interview victims of traumatic events such as wars, natural disasters, physical or moral abuse, which may feel awkward and even take an emotional toll on them. This article provides tips for journalists on how to  interview survivors of traumatic events in the […]

Emotional stress can divide a journalist’s attention while on the field and thus negatively impact their work. This article, based on infographics from online medical consultation service provider Eutelmed, explains how journalists can effectively manage their emotional health during a mission. On-the-ground reporting requires journalists to focus on more than […]

The trauma experienced by journalists during their work can lead to lasting mental and physical health issues. It is important for journalists to understand the signs of trauma so that they can adequately respond to them.  Journalists bear witness to disaster, suffering, and acts of violence on the job. They […]

Focusing on oneself and one’s own values is a proven method to build resilience and lessen the psychological impact of traumatising events. Journalists in their work may encounter situations that can negatively impact their mental state. Focusing on oneself and one’s own values is a proven method to build resilience […]