Just as firsthand exposure to violence can trigger PTSD, continuously viewing graphic digital content can cause severe secondary trauma. Experts compare this to the "secondhand smoke" of journalism—fact-checkers might not be at the riot, but repeated, intensive exposure to violence causes insomnia, anxiety, and emotional numbing.
The Bharat Media Association stresses that repeated...
Covering the world's darkest moments takes a severe psychological toll on journalists. From front-line war zones and natural disasters to mass shootings and global pandemics, reporters consistently witness intense human suffering. This constant exposure is leading to a growing mental health crisis within the profession, marked by high rates of PTSD, severe anxiety, and chronic burnout....