ABOUT
Debrief the Media is a dedicated mental health organisation providing specialised support for journalists and media workers in the global South. We believe the mental health of journalists has a profound impact on media freedom and quality. Journalists often face the same traumatic experiences as first responders but typically without the necessary training and support. Unfortunately, most wellness interventions fail to address the unique challenges journalists encounter. Debrief the Media aims to bridge this gap by offering tailored mental health support, real-time assistance, and community engagement.
WHAT WE DO
Awareness and Advocacy: We raise awareness about the mental health challenges faced by journalists and advocate for better support systems within the industry.
Community: Building a supportive community where journalists can share their experiences and access peer support.
Intervention and Training: Providing preemptive interventions and specific training designed to prepare journalists for the unique stresses of their profession.
WHY WE DO IT
The mental ill health of journalists significantly impacts media freedom.
Journalists experience similar trauma to first responders but lack comparable training and support.
Existing wellness interventions are often not tailored to the specific needs of journalists.
Founded by South African award-winning editor and author Qaanitah Hunter. It seeks to bring together veteran journalists and accredited wellness coaches and experienced therapists committed to the well-being of those who report the news. Starting in South Africa, we aim to expand our reach across Africa and the MENA region.
What we don’t realise is that that mental health and ill mental health is a media freedom issue. If we don’t deal with issues around the mental health of journalists, you’re going to have more and more journalists self-censoring and burntout, and there will be a mass exodus from the industry because people just cannot cope because they don’t have support and the tools, etcetera.
Training
In today’s fast-paced and often high-stress media environment, the mental well-being of journalists and editors is more important than ever. Journalists frequently confront traumatic events and high-pressure situations without the proper support, which can lead to burnout, anxiety, and diminished performance. To help your team navigate these challenges, we are offering a specialised training program that combines the expertise of seasoned journalists with insights from mental health professionals.
Journalists are not just observers; they are participants in the stories they cover, often exposed to the same trauma as first responders but without the necessary coping mechanisms. Our training program addresses this critical need, providing your team with the tools to manage stress, build resilience, and maintain their mental health while continuing to deliver high-quality journalism.