PTSD In the Journalism Profession

September 11th has decisively transformed the everyday contexts within which journalists routinely operate evidence of this transformation is everywhere, not least with regard to the struggle to negotiate the complexities of the crisis in a suitably fair or balanced manner. 

Trauma cannot be resolved by sticking strictly to the facts and information gathered. For journalists, the need to work through trauma has not only been individual but collective repercussions too. Journalism plays a key role in moving entire populations from trauma to recovery, but journalists themselves need time to come to terms with what they have experienced. Journalists can experience trauma in their everyday jobs, such as reporting on car crashes or a death of someone they may know, not only from reporting from war zones. 

There are 8 safety principles for journalist reporting in war zones. 

1. Commitment: the media, public authorities and journalists themselves shall systematically seek ways to assess and reduce the risks in war zones or dangerous areas by consulting each other and exchanging all useful information.
2. Free Will: covering wars involves an acceptance by media workers of the risks attached and also a personal commitment which means they go on a strictly voluntary basis because of the risks they should have the right to refuse such assignments without explanation and without there being any finding of unprofessional conduct.
3. Experience: war reporting requires special skills and experience so editors should choose staff or free lancers who are mature and use to crisis situations. Team work in the field should be encouraged to ensure the safety of all journalists.
4. Preparation: regular training in how to cope in war zones or dangerous areas will help reduce the risk of journalists.
5. Equipment: editors should provide special correspondent working in dangerous areas with safety equipment.
6. Insurance: media management should take all necessary steps to provide this before sending or employing staff on dangerous assignments.
7. Psychological Counseling: media management should ensure that journalists who desire have access to counseling after returning from dangerous areas.
8. Legal Protection: journalists on dangerous assignments are considered civilians under the Geneva Conventions, provided they do not do anything or behave in any way that might compromise this status.

Journalists need to be aware that Post Traumatic Stress Disorder can affect them, whether they report from war zones to car crashes on a daily basis. Journalists in the profession need to understand there is nothing wrong with receiving help if they feel overwhelmed. It is healthy to talk to someone than to bottle it all up and have it crash down on you later because it can eventually affect your personal life and profession one.