Mental Health in Journalism Summit

Humans are inherently selfish and prone to violence. We need governments, armies and police to maintain order. But those institutions are also corrupt and self-serving. Children are born naughty and are lazy at school unless teachers take a hard line. When they enter the workforce, their managers expect the same. Those are the assumptions that are baked into our societies and perpetuated by hard-nosed journalists. But what if those assumptions are wrong? If we really want to be unbiased as journalists, we need to balance our powerful negativity bias with a dose of positivity. That should make for more hopeful stories, healthier journalists and happier newsrooms and audiences.

Speakers

Emma Thomasson

Journalist, media consultant, trainer, coach, Freelancer

Emma Thomasson is a British journalist, consultant and facilitator based in Berlin. She is an expert in empathetic leadership, strategy and communication, as well as European politics, business, technology and economics. She is also a leadership coach and an advocate for better workplace... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 13:30 - 14:00 CEST
English

Keynote / Sesión magistral

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

14:00 CEST

Empower Her: Mental Health Support for Women Journalists in Bangladesh

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST

English

Learn how a pilot programme implemented by Media Resources Development Initiative positively impacted the mental health of women journalists working in national news outlets in Bangladesh.

Moderators

Sarwat Nadia

Senior Programme Officer, Media Resources Development Initiative (MRDI)

Experienced and dedicated professional with a strong background in news media, program management, and project coordination. Over a decade of experience in senior editorial roles within leading television and newspapers, overseeing content development, news reporting, edit news stories... Read More →

Speakers

Hasibur Rahman

Executive Director, Media Resources Development Initiative (MRDI)

Hasibur Rahman, the executive director, leads MRDI with a deep understanding of Bangladeshi news media, in developing a strong and independent media that exercises excellence in journalism, through research, training and production-based practical learning. At present he is working... Read More →

Munima Sultana

Special Correspondent, The Financial Express

I am a journalist by professor, now working in the country’s first financial daily newspaper for the last 20 years. It is now 30 years of experience as I worked in various media including news agencies, magazines and online portal. My decision to be a journalist has left me to face... Read More →

Roufun Naher

Assistant Professor at Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, University of Dhaka

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST
English

Case study / Caso de estudio

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

14:00 CEST

Implementing Journalist Peer Support Programs – Lessons from Those Who Have Done It: 2006 to Now!

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST

English

Presenting examples of setting up and operating peer support programs across the world - The Washington Post, the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC) and the cross-industry program facilitated by the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines (NUJP). Best practice guidelines for setting up media industry peer support programs has been written and will be discussed (McMahon, in press).

This panel will share reflections on establishing peer support programs in newsrooms and cross-industry; present questions to clarify what types of support a journalism organisation should offer staff, and lessons learned from years of established peer support programs from Britain, the Global South and Oceania.

Moderators

Dr. Cait McMahon

Founder and Director, CMC:Cait McMahon Consulting

Dr Cait McMahon OAM is an innovator, thought leader, and skilled educator, and one of the few psychologists globally who has dedicated over 30 years working with those in the media industry on work related trauma exposure.Dr McMahon was instrumental in training and developing the... Read More →

Speakers

Rowena Paraan

Training Director, Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism / Dart Centre Asia Pacific

Rowena Paraan has been a journalist for over 30 years and is currently the Training Director of the Philippine Center for Investigative Journalism (PCIJ). She designs and implements training workshops on investigative journalism, weaving the discussion of trauma-informed reporting... Read More →

Natalie Graham

Presenter and Peer Support Coordinator, BBC

Natalie is an experienced journalist who has worked in a range of on-air roles at the BBC since she joined the organisation in 1996. After many years on the road as a reporter she is now the anchor of the daily regional news TV programme South East Today. For 11 years she also presented... Read More →

Phoebe Connelly

Senior Editor, AI Strategy and Innovation, The Washington Post

Connelly is a journalist and senior editor for AI strategy and innovation at The Post. Connelly, along with colleague Camille Kilgore has spearheaded The Washington Post peer support program. Focused on staff wellbeing for a number of years, Connelly and Kilgore assessed that a peer... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

14:00 CEST

Rethinking Journalists’ Mental Well-Being in Italy, Greece, and Portugal

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST

English

Journalists’ mental well-being is crucial for good journalism. But in some Southern European countries, this topic is still a taboo. The solutions aren’t straightforward, since every person deals with well-being differently, and the problems touch on systemic issues in the profession, such as precariousness and low incomes, which also need to be tackled for long-lasting well-being.

What are the main challenges that journalists’ mental health faces? What is being done already to solve them, and what is possible beyond existing solutions? We will find out more about three projects in Italy, Greece, and Portugal.

Moderators

Elena Ledda

Independent journalist, Independent journalist

Elena Ledda is a feminist independent journalist from Sardinia based in Barcelona, Spain She practices a constructive and solutions focused, narrative, long-form and slow journalism from a feminist perspective, one that tells stories that deal with conflicts, inequalities, and injustice... Read More →

Speakers

Alice Facchini

Journalist, Freelancer

Alice Facchini is an Italian freelance journalist specialised in environment, social and gender issues. She has reported from different countries around the world including Colombia, Ecuador, Chile, Jordan, and Guinea Bissau, investigating the destruction of natural ecosystems and... Read More →

Iliana Papangeli

Managing Director, Solomon

Iliana Papangeli is the managing director of Solomon, an award-winning non-profit investigative outlet based in Greece, specializing in migration, corruption, and climate issues. She works as a writer, editor, and reporter. She advocates for leadership that prioritizes care practices... Read More →

Vânia Maia

Journalist, PhD Candidate / Periodista, Doctoranda, Freelancer, Lusófona University Lisbon / Freelancer, Universidad Lusófona de Lisboa

It all began behind the microphones of local radio stations, but it was in the press that Vânia Maia became a professional journalist. Her work has earned her over a dozen awards, including the Lorenzo Natali Prize from the European Commission. A fellow of the European Collaborative... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

14:00 CEST

Decoding Online Harassment: An Analytical Approach to Tackling Online Hate and Smear Campaigns

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST

English

This workshop will provide journalists with tools to do three things: first, to identify vulnerabilities on their digital footprint that are often weaponised by trolls; second, to assess the potential impact of attacks on reporters; and finally, to adopt the best approach to combat attacks even with limited resources. This workshop draws on the International Press Institute's insights from more than a decade of systematic monitoring of these types of attacks to offer best practices for addressing online abuse and their impact on media.

Speakers

Javier Luque

Head of Digital Communications, International Press Institute (IPI)

Javier Luque is the Head of Digital Communications for the International Press Institute, where he coordinates advocacy and communication on IPI’s digital platforms. He has worked on online hate against journalists and media organisations since 2014. His research on this topic has... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

14:00 CEST

Prioritizing Self-Care: Tools to Combat Burnout and Stress for Journalists

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST

English

This workshop provides journalists with practical tools to prioritize self-care, reduce burnout, and manage stress. It starts with an icebreaker to highlight how often we unconsciously neglect our well-being, followed by a focus on mindfulness and awareness, emphasizing the importance of slowing down and reconnecting with what brings joy.

Participants will learn how to adopt small, positive changes using the 2% rule to improve work-life balance, connect with nature through eco-psychology, and minimize distractions like excessive phone use. The session also offers techniques for building self-esteem, practicing conscious wellness through journaling, meditation, and healthy habits, and becoming your own cheerleader.

Speakers

Lara Ayoub

Founder, The Media Lab

Digital Media Strategist, RTT® Therapist & Women’s Rights AdvocateLara Ayoub is a digital media strategist, trainer, and gender and media consultant with over 20 years of experience. She is the founder of The Media Lab, a community-interest organization, and co-founder of SADAQA... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:00 - 14:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

14:50 CEST

Ten-Minute Break

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:50 - 15:00 CEST

English

Wednesday October 9, 2024 14:50 - 15:00 CEST
English

15:00 CEST

The Silly Session: Play as a Form of Self-Care

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST

English

Wellbeing Activity / Actividad de bienestar

In our fast-paced, productivity-driven world, we often forget the transformative power of play and the pleasure of embracing simple joys. This workshop invites participants to explore how integrating these elements into daily life can lead to greater creativity, joy, and connection.

Over 50 minutes, this workshop reclaims play, not as an escape from “real” work, but as a vital part of it. With our trademark gentle humor and light-heartedness, we'll lead simple, playful activities that participants can continue to implement in their day-to-day lives.

Join us in reclaiming the joy of play as a vital component of self-care and well-being.

Speakers

Samantha Holdsworth

CEO, Clowns Without Borders UK

Sam is the CEO and founder of Clowns Without Borders UK, a charity that supports children in crisis settings to heal, learn and thrive through laughter and play. Through safe, joyful performances we deliver immediate emotional first aid to children in some of the most challenging... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Non-recorded session / Sesión no grabada

15:00 CEST

Being a Peer Supporter: Explore Your Potential

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST

English

During difficult times, whether it's a work burnout, exposure to graphic imagery, or just everyday stress, you need support, and sometimes you can be the supporter. In this session, we explore the term “Peer Supporting”, and identify the main elements and techniques of how you can become a peer supporter to your colleagues and fellow journalists.

Speakers

Samya Ayish

Communication Manager, ARIJ

Samya Ayish joined ARIJ as a communication manager in 2021. She is an independent journalist and digital media trainer based in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Samya focuses on innovation, AI and visual storytelling in her work, and seeks to create innovative ways to promote news stories... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

15:00 CEST

How Are You? Psychological First Aid (PFA) for Women Journalists

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST

English

How to cope with acute psychological distress, the emotional consequences of covering armed conflict, violence and human suffering? How to deal with the stigma of seeking mental health services? How to help a friend or colleague journalist who is suffering and needs support?
The objective of this training is to teach in 30 minutes of training and 10 minutes of practice the basics of Psychological First Aid. Designed by Luisa Ortiz Perez, creative leadership consultant and specialist in digital sovereignty and online violence, Camila Sanchez, sociologist, specialist in Public Policy and Gender Studies and Nicole Martin, feminist investigative journalist and executive director of Vita Activa.

Speakers

Nicole Martin

Vita Activa's Executive Director, Vita Activa

Nicole Martin is a feminist investigative journalist from Argentina and the Executive Director of Vita Activa, a helpline that gives online support and strategic solutions for women and LGBTIQ+ journalists, activists and gender, land and labor rights, and freedom of expression defenders... Read More →

Camila Andrea Sánchez Pulido

Community coordinator, Vita Activa

Sociologist, specialist in public policies and gender studies. Master in Social Anthropology. Social researcher on peace pedagogies, human rights and exile of activists and defenders. Experience in social intervention, care and support for gender-based violence.

Luisa Ortiz Pérez

Principal & Co-Founder, Vita Activa

Dr. Luisa Ortiz Pérez is the co-founder of Vita-Activa.org, she conceptualized and launched a helpline to aid women journalists and activists facing online violence and gender based harassment. As part of Vita Activa's task force, she leads Psychological First Aid task forces that... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Non-recorded session / Sesión no grabada

15:00 CEST

How Emotionally-Regulated Journalism Produces Better Stories

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST

English

Often when we speak about journalists' mental health we're focused on issues like trauma and burnout. But what about the ways in which poor mental health actually results in poorer quality journalism, lost opportunities in interviews, and inaccurate storytelling. Join this interactive session to find out how the key to garnering trust and creating safety with those we speak to lies in learning to regulate our nervous systems.

Speakers

James Scurry

Journalist & psychotherapist, Sky News UK / Safely Held Spaces

James Scurry is an Assistant Editor at Sky News UK, a licensed psychotherapist and Co-founder and Co-director at the British mental health non-profit organisation Safely Held Spaces, which provides editorial mental health training programmes to newsrooms. James has worked in television... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

15:00 CEST

How to Bring Creativity into Your Day-to-Day Journalism Job

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST

English

Whether you’re working in a newsroom as a reporter or managing a team in a cross-border investigation, creativity and art can enhance your work and flow into every aspect of your daily job, even in unexpected ways. In this workshop, we’ll explore various techniques to infuse more creativity into our daily tasks. We’ll cover key aspects of The Artist's Way, including how to use morning pages, dates with the artist, and meditative walks to bring creativity into our lives. We’ll also practice timed writing exercises inspired by Natalie Goldberg’s technique of writing from “first thoughts” (keep your hand moving, don’t cross out, just get it on paper).

Speakers

Gabriela Manuli

Deputy Director, Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN)

Gabriela Manuli is the Deputy Director of the Global Investigative Journalism Network (GIJN), an association of 250 nonprofit organizations in 91 countries dedicated to investigative reporting. In 2019, she co-founded the GIJN Women Group, a network for women and non-binary investigative... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:00 - 15:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

15:50 CEST

Ten-Minute Break

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:50 - 16:00 CEST

English

Wednesday October 9, 2024 15:50 - 16:00 CEST
English

16:00 CEST

Do It Yourself: How to Build Your Own Peer Support Network

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST

English

Since most newsrooms don’t provide psychological support, many journalists struggle to cope with job-related mental health challenges. An easy solution for that problem: peer support. This panel adresses, from Netzwerk Recherche's experience, how setting up peer support structures in journalism can be an easy way to mitigate the burden our industry is facing.

Speakers

Malte Werner

Project lead Helpline, Netzwerk Recherche e.V.

Former freelance reporter. Now working at Germany's association for investigative journalists, Netzwerk Recherche, where he runs a free-to-all peer support hotline for journalists suffering from psychosocial problems ("Helpline").

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST
English

Case study / Caso de estudio

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

16:00 CEST

Reorganizing Communication Tools to Reduce Stress Among Teams

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST

English

In recent years, AFP has used a variety of communication tools across different regions, departments, and individual preferences. This has led to a proliferation of tools, making internal communication complex. For instance, it was challenging to determine the appropriate channel for contacting someone, causing inefficiency and uncertainty about message reception. Employees also had to monitor multiple tools, leading to increased stress. To address these issues, AFP has decided to streamline and simplify its communication methods.

Speakers

Benoît Toussaint

Deputy supervisor for the safety of journalists, Agence France-Presse

I am a 38-year-old French journalist with nearly 15 years of experience at AFP. During my career, I have worked in Germany and France, covering topics such as business, economics, geopolitics, and defense. In November 2023, I was appointed deputy supervisor for the safety of journalists... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST
English

Case study / Caso de estudio

Recording / Grabación Non-recorded session / Sesión no grabada

16:00 CEST

Beyond Journalism: Lessons on Mental Health and Wellbeing from Other Industries

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST

English

Journalism is not the only profession facing mental health challenges. Entrepreneurs, chefs and lawyers are also facing high levels of stress and their wellbeing is at high risk. In this panel, we'll talk with representatives from organizations outside of the media to learn how they take care of their own and what we can learn about it.

Moderators

Kim Brice

Co-founder, Secretary of the Board, Trainer and Coach, The Self-Investigation

Speakers

Diana Adams

Executive Director, Chosen Family Law Center Inc.

Diana Adams is the founder of the boutique LGBTQIA+ family law and mediation firm Diana Adams Law & Mediation, PLLC and Executive Director of legal services & advocacy nonprofit Chosen Family Law Center, Inc., both based in New York City. Diana practices family law by providing support... Read More →

Jason Cavnar

Executive Chairman, Founder Mental Health Pledge

Jason is the Founder and CEO of Vitality Labs - an incubator, impact investment and advisory firm for accelerating human flourishing. He also serves as Executive Chairman for the Founder Mental Health Pledge (a community of 800+ investors and founders) and advisor to several family... Read More →

Kris Hall

Mental Health Advocate & Non-Profit Founder, The Burnt Chef Project

Kris is a mental health and stress reduction expert, public speaker, and campaigner who operates globally to tackle mental health stigma in hospitality. He is Founder and CEO of The Burnt Chef Project, a not-for-profit social enterprise founded in 2019, focussed on people-centered... Read More →

Aaron Pereira

Project Lead, The Wellbeing Project

Aaron is Project Lead at The Well being Project, a network of organizations across the globe who, for the last 8 years, have been at the heart of moving wellbeing in social change from taboo to entering the mainstream.Aaron has been involved in social change work for most of his... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

16:00 CEST

Journalism’s Open Secret: When Alcohol Use Turns into Abuse

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST

English

Alcohol has long been ubiquitous in journalism culture: From movies where editors toast a big scoop to happy hours to the late-night crew hustling over to catch last call after a long night. But the line between use and abuse can quickly blur, especially for individuals with high-pressure, high-stakes, trauma-exposed jobs like journalists.

This panel discussion will feature substance abuse experts and psychologists who can help the audience identify patterns that indicate substance abuse, alcohol’s long-term effects on mental health, productive ways to cope with trigger points and stress, and where to find assistance. NPCJI Executive Director Beth Francesco would moderate this conversation in which participants could ask questions anonymously.

Moderators

Beth Francesco

Executive Director, National Press Club Journalism Institute

As the executive director of the National Press Club Journalism Institute (NPCJI), I lead a team of dedicated professionals who are committed to advancing the practice and values of journalism. I oversee the daily operations, strategic planning, fundraising, and events of the nonprofit... Read More →

Speakers

Janna Koretz

Azimuth Psychological, Psychologist, Owner of Azimuth

Dr. Koretz is the founder of Azimuth, a therapy practice specializing in the mental health challenges of individuals in high-pressure careers. She has spent over a decade helping her clients face and overcome their mental health issues by developing a unique understanding of industry-specific... Read More →

Bill Nichols

Senior Advisor, Freedman Consulting, LLC

Bill Nichols is a Senior Advisor at Freedman Consulting, LLC, joining the firm after a 35-year career in journalism, most recently as the founding Managing Editor of POLITICO. He brings decades of experience in covering Washington and national politics and a successful track record... Read More →

Taylor Six

Creator of the Journalists Recovery Network, Criminal Justice Journalist

Taylor Six is a criminal justice journalist at the Lexington Herald-Leader and creator of the Journalists Recovery Network, an online community created to break the stigma of journalists in recovery or exploring sobriety. She graduated from Eastern Kentucky University in 2018 with... Read More →

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

16:00 CEST

Voices of Resilience: Overcoming Mental Health Challenges in Journalism

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST

English

Join us for a candid discussion as journalists from diverse backgrounds share their personal experiences and invaluable insights on overcoming mental health challenges in the fast-paced and often demanding world of journalism. Discover practical tips and strategies that have helped these professionals navigate the unique pressures of their roles while prioritizing their well-being.

Moderators

Sneha Alexander

Senior Program Manager, Asia-Pacific, Meedan

Sneha Alexander is Meedan's Senior Program Manager for Asia-Pacific and is passionate about designing programmatic initiatives that aims to make the internet a safe and equitable space. She has previous experiences as a fact-checker and data journalist in India.

Speakers

Michael VanZetta

CEO, PiZetta Media

Michael VanZetta is a passionate storyteller and founder of PiZetta Media, a multimedia company dedicated to creating impactful content with a cause. With a focus on mental health advocacy, social change, and inspiring leadership, Michael has built a platform that resonates with audiences... Read More →

Nicola Morrison

Editor, Author and former BBC Correpsondent

Nicola Morrison is currently a print editor, with years of experience as a BBC boradcast journalist specialising in TV, radio and online. Some of her greatest accomplishments have included reporting on the breaking news story of Covid-19. She has a MA in journalism and has also worked... Read More →

Al Albertson

Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights Content and Communication Specialist, Queer Sex Education Community Curriculum & Share-Net Netherlands

Al Albertson (they/them) is a sexuality, gender, and relationship educator and activist based in Amsterdam. As the co-founder of Queer Sex Ed Community Curriculum (@queersexedcc, queersexedcc.com), a free online platform for sexuality education, they are deeply committed to advocacy... Read More →

Kuwarjeet Singh Arora

Independent Journalist & Publicist, Freelancer / Kuwarjeet Singh / Sikh Journalist

Kuwarjeet Singh is an award-winning Sikh journalist, content creator, and storyteller based in Brampton, Ontario. His recent academic achievements include a Bachelor of Journalism and a Double Minor in Criminology and Public Relations. His expertise and knowledge came from working... Read More →

Arlinda Shehu

Policy Manager, Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Network in Albania

I’ve started my career as a journalist over 20 years ago covering the news of judicial sector. After the first decade in the media, I joined a health magazine as editor-in-chief and the next year I was involved in the civil society sector with health issues, one of the most corrupted... Read More →

Aishwarya Varma

Correspondent, Fact-check, The Quint

Aishwarya is a correspondent at The Quint's WebQoof in India. Her work involves debunking misinformation related to crisis events, narrative-building, and disinformation campaigns. She is interested in investigating the scope of the misuse of AI to spread 'fake news'. Having this... Read More →

Maissoun Khaled

Senior Multimedia Journalist

I'm an editor and a reporter with 10 years of experience in Middle East politics, working both for online media and TV.

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:00 - 16:50 CEST
English

Recording / Grabación Recorded session / Sesión grabada

16:50 CEST

Ten-Minute Break

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:50 - 17:00 CEST

English

Wednesday October 9, 2024 16:50 - 17:00 CEST
English

17:00 CEST

Fixing Newsrooms: 10 Best Practices from Around The Globe

Wednesday October 9, 2024 17:00 - 17:30 CEST

English