What are the best ways to avoid secondary trauma when reporting on traumatic events?

1 Know the signs

Secondary trauma can manifest in various ways, such as anxiety, depression, insomnia, nightmares, flashbacks, irritability, guilt, anger, or numbness. It can also affect your physical health, such as causing headaches, fatigue, or stomach problems. You should be aware of the signs and symptoms of secondary trauma and monitor your own emotional and physical reactions. If you notice any changes in your mood, behavior, or health, you should seek professional help or support.

3 Practice self-care

Self-care is essential for preventing and reducing secondary trauma. You should take care of your basic needs, such as eating well, sleeping enough, exercising regularly, and staying hydrated. You should also find ways to relax and recharge, such as meditating, reading, listening to music, or spending time with friends or family. You should avoid using alcohol, drugs, or other substances to cope with stress or emotions, as they can worsen your condition and create more problems.

4 Seek support

You are not alone in dealing with secondary trauma. You can seek support from your colleagues, peers, mentors, or managers who understand the challenges and pressures of reporting on traumatic events. You can share your experiences, feelings, and concerns with them and offer mutual support and feedback. You can also join or create a network or community of journalists who cover similar topics and exchange tips and resources. You can also access professional counseling or therapy services if you need more help or guidance.

5 Learn from others

You can learn from other journalists who have reported on traumatic events and how they have avoided or coped with secondary trauma. You can read their stories, watch their interviews, or listen to their podcasts and gain insights and advice from their perspectives and experiences. You can also attend workshops, webinars, or courses that teach you how to report on trauma and violence ethically and safely. You can also follow the guidelines and recommendations of organizations that specialize in journalism and trauma, such as the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma or the International Center for Journalists.

6 Review your work

You should review your work and reflect on your achievements and challenges when reporting on traumatic events. You should acknowledge the positive impact and value of your work and the difference you make by informing the public and raising awareness. You should also recognize the difficulties and risks you face and the skills and resilience you develop. You should celebrate your successes and learn from your mistakes. You should also seek feedback and recognition from your editors, peers, or audience.

7 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?