2024 World Mental Health Day: The Women in Journalism angle

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Every October 10,  is set aside to commemorate ‘World Mental Health Day’, raising global awareness about mental health complexities and risks. Journalists,  especially the  women are particularly more  vulnerable , this is according to a Medical report which says about twice as many women as men experience depression . Women are nearly twice as likely as men to be diagnosed with depression which may can occur at any age. Some mood changes and depressed feelings occur with normal hormonal changes. But hormonal changes alone do not cause depression. Other biological factors, inherited traits, and personal life circumstances and experiences are associated with a higher risk of depression. The nature of the journalism profession, the categories of reports and stories covered by these women can also contribute to a high risk of depression and post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD)

                                      Mental Health Challenges in Journalism

Mental health issues encompass various conditions, including depression, anxiety disorders, bipolar disorder, PTSD, and schizophrenia, among others. For journalists covering development and conflict, their careers can be particularly demanding. War correspondents, in particular, are vulnerable to severe mental health issues. Journalists who have covered conflict zones often experience lasting impacts.

PTSD is a common affliction, triggered by haunting memories of dead bodies, bloodstained scenes, and ravaged infrastructure. These disturbing images persist and affect their post-work lives.

The Conversation further explained that “Women are more at risk of suffering poorer mental health in general during a financial crisis, as they tend to take on more responsibilities both at work and home – including increased emotional labor supporting others who may be struggling financially.”

Women journalists, just as their male counterparts, are exposed to traumatic events. When covering news stories, women journalists—like their male counterparts—may come across violent incidents, tragic occurrences, and human suffering. Their mental health may suffer as a result of seeing upsetting events, which can result in mental distress, FOJO.

The 2024 theme, “Mental Health at Work” is timely, as work pressures overwhelm individuals worldwide. This theme highlights the link between productivity and mental well-being.

With a safe, collaborative, and positive work environment the mental health of staff is guaranteed.

According to the World Health Organization’s 2024 report, “Unhealthy conditions including stigma, discrimination, and exposure to risks like harassment and other poor working conditions, can pose significant risks, affecting mental health, overall quality of life and consequently participation or productivity at work. With 60% of the global population in work, urgent action is needed to ensure work prevents risks to mental health , protects and supports mental health at work

Workers, especially in developing countries, particularly face mental health challenges in the workplace, heightened by the current significant rise in economic pressures A 2023 report by The Conversation found that “Manual workers (such as farmers, tradespeople and those working minimum-wage jobs) are vulnerable as they typically have less of a safety net, while small business owners are particularly susceptible to financial pressures and worries.

People at either end of the age spectrum are also more vulnerable as they have fewer resources. Others at higher risk include families, people with lower levels of formal education, and those with long-term health conditions.”

More explicitly, WHO (2024) highlights that “The overall objective of World Mental Health Day is to raise awareness of mental health issues around the world and to mobilize efforts in support of mental health. The day provides an opportunity for all stakeholders working on mental health issues to talk about their work and what more needs to be done to make mental health care a reality for people worldwide.”

Supportive Working Environment

For journalists to thrive in their workplaces, an enabling environment that prioritizes mental health is crucial. The World Health Organization (WHO) emphasizes that “Lack of support for people with mental health conditions can negatively impact their self-confidence, enjoyment at work, capacity to work, absences and ability to gain employment. Carers and family members are similarly affected.”

To foster a supportive environment, media managers must champion mental health within their organizations. Integrating this ideology enables reporters to better cope with work-related mental health challenges. Specifically, media managers can implement measures like; rotation of beats to reduce burnout, financial support for mental health services, emotional support through counseling or peer networks. These initiatives empower journalists to perform their duties efficiently, maintaining their mental well-being.

Women journalists require additional support, as they often juggle professional responsibilities with caregiving roles at home. With balanced workloads and comprehensive support, they can deliver their best performance in the workplace.