By Amina Samuel, Kaduna
Over 50 journalists in Kaduna State have undergone mental health training organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Kaduna State Council in collaboration with the Africa Media Development Foundation (AMDF).
The initiative aims to educate media professionals on the psychological risks they face while covering distressing and traumatic events, such as accidents, violent crimes, insurgency attacks, and natural disasters.
Speaking at the event on Friday, NUJ Kaduna State Council Chairman, Alhaji Abdulgafar Alabelewe, described the training as timely and significant. Represented by his Secretary, Comrade Gambo Santos Sanga, he highlighted the emotional toll of journalists’ work.
“As media practitioners, we are exposed daily to distressing sights,” Alabelewe said.
“These experiences leave deep emotional and psychological imprints, which can affect our mental health, productivity, and personal relationships if unaddressed.”
The training equips journalists with tools to recognise signs of stress, trauma, and burnout, while offering coping strategies to maintain resilience. It also aims to improve reporting on mental health issues, reducing stigma and fostering public understanding.
Alabelewe praised the participants’ enthusiasm, noting their commitment to personal and professional growth.
He expressed gratitude to AMDF for their consistent support in building journalists’ capacity across various areas, including investigative journalism, safety, fact-checking, and now mental health.
Sekyen Dadik, Executive Director of AMDF, underscored the unique challenges journalists face, which can impact their mental well-being.
“This training is a response to the interest shown by journalists at the 2024 Africa Conference on Development Journalism,” she said.
Dadik emphasised AMDF’s commitment to journalists’ well-being, stating, “Together, we can create a supportive environment that fosters excellence in journalism.”
