Why We Need More Trauma Informed Journalism

Last week I was honoured to be invited to a private symposium by James Scurry, Senior Producer & Assistant Editor at Sky News. The symposium looked at better storytelling through trauma-informed journalism and how better to protect mental health for journalists in both in the field and in the edit suite. The event was attended primarily by accredited journalists and those working in newsrooms and was was hosted by Sky's Saima Mohsin with guest speakers Leona O’Neill (Founder of Media Strong) Jeremy Bowen and Allan Little from the BBC. It was a powerful and emotional event with journalists sharing their lived experience of trauma.

On the return journey home I was able to reflect on why trauma informed journalism matters to those of us working in the service charity sector. In my opinion, journalists should be trauma-informed when reporting on the lived experiences of military veterans for several important reasons. Not least because veterans may have experienced significant trauma during their service, including exposure to combat, loss of comrades, Military Sexual Trauma and/or other stressful situations. A trauma-informed approach ensures that journalists are aware of these potential traumas and approach interviews and stories with the necessary sensitivity and respect. Sensitive or poorly handled reporting can inadvertently re-traumatise veterans. Asking triggering questions or presenting their stories in a sensationalised manner can exacerbate their trauma. Trauma-informed journalists are trained to recognise and avoid these triggers, ensuring that their reporting does not cause additional harm. Veterans and those in the service charity sector may be wary of the media due to previous negative experiences or a general mistrust of how their stories might be portrayed. A trauma-informed approach helps journalists build trust with veterans, making them more willing to share their experiences. This leads to more authentic and comprehensive stories. Trauma-informed journalism aligns with ethical reporting standards. It emphasises the importance of treating interview subjects with dignity and respect, acknowledging their experiences, and presenting their stories accurately and empathetically. Understanding the impact of trauma on veterans’ lives allows journalists to provide a more accurate and nuanced portrayal of their experiences. This helps the public gain a better understanding of the challenges veterans face, beyond the stereotypes often perpetuated in the media. when done correctly, reporting on veterans’ experiences can be a powerful tool for raising awareness about the issues they face, such as Military Sexual Trauma PTSD, reintegration challenges, and mental health struggles. It can also contribute to societal healing by fostering empathy and understanding. Similarly, sensitive and informed reporting can help improve public perception of veterans. By highlighting their strengths, resilience, and contributions to society, journalists can counteract negative stereotypes and promote a more balanced view. For other veterans reading or watching these stories, trauma-informed reporting can provide validation and a sense of community. Knowing that their experiences are being represented accurately and respectfully can be empowering and reduce feelings of isolation. Journalists have an ethical obligation to do no harm. Trauma-informed practices are part of this ethical commitment, ensuring that the process of reporting itself does not negatively impact the subjects of the stories. In conclusion, adopting a trauma-informed approach in journalism not only benefits the veterans being reported on but also enhances the quality and impact of the journalism itself. By prioritising sensitivity, respect, and accuracy, journalists can produce stories that are not only compelling but also ethically sound and socially responsible.

Tony Wright CEO Forward Assist