World Mental Health Day 2026
Ahead of World Mental Health Day, the NUJ Disabled Members’ Council stands in solidarity with all journalists and media workers experiencing mental health challenges.
Mental health is a workplace issue, and it deserves far greater attention across the journalism industry.
Journalists often work in demanding environments, covering conflict, disasters, crime, abuse and other distressing events. Many face harassment, abuse and intimidation both online and offline. Alongside this, long hours, heavy workloads, job insecurity and constant pressure can take a significant toll on mental wellbeing. The cumulative impact can contribute to stress, anxiety, depression, burnout and trauma-related conditions.
Too many journalists still feel unable to speak openly about their mental health because of stigma or concerns about how disclosure may affect their careers. No one should have to choose between protecting their wellbeing and protecting their livelihood.
Employers have a responsibility to recognise the psychological risks associated with journalistic work and to provide meaningful support. This includes access to mental health resources, trauma-informed management, reasonable adjustments, and workplace cultures where people can ask for help without fear of judgment or disadvantage.
This year's World Mental Health Day comes at a particularly difficult time for many across the industry. Ongoing job losses, restructuring programmes and shrinking resources are creating uncertainty and increasing pressure on staff. For many journalists and media workers, concerns about workload, workload intensity and job security are having a direct impact on mental health.
The health of our industry depends on the health of the people who work within it. Supporting mental wellbeing cannot be treated as an optional extra or addressed only in times of crisis. It must be a core part of creating safe, sustainable and supportive workplaces.
We call on employers, editors and industry leaders to place mental health at the heart of their decision-making and to recognise the very real impact that workplace trauma, insecurity, excessive workloads and pressure can have on journalists and media workers.
Further support and resources
The NUJ Mental Health Toolkit offers practical guidance for members, chapels and workplace representatives on improving support for mental health at work and developing policies that create fairer and more inclusive workplaces.
The NUJ's guidance on post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) provides advice and signposts support, including assistance available through the Rory Peck Trust. Any journalists who have suffered abuse, threats or attacks in the course of their work should make a submission to the union's Journalists’ Safety Tracker.
Members experiencing financial difficulties may be able to access assistance through NUJ extra and support offered by the Rory Peck Trust.
The union and specialist organisations can also provide guidance for individuals and workplace reps dealing with mental health issues in the workplace.
Reporting on mental health and trauma
Other useful resources include:
- Reporting on suicide (MediaWise)
- Suicide Reporting Toolkit
- Reporting on sexual violence (End Violence Against Women)