Anyone who works in tv news right now, knows that there is an underlying pressure that comes with the job everyday. It doesn’t matter if you are a news manager, an on-air talent or work behind the scenes, you are dealing with a lot. All jobs have some degree of pressure, and let’s be honest, it’s not life or death, but we face a different kind of pressure. We all work under extremely tight deadlines, have tens of thousands of people watching and judging “us” and get to hear or read about what people don’t like about the job you just did.
As a news director for more than 15 years, I have watched as this pressure has grown over the last few years. The staffs have grown younger and smaller, while the negativity towards the media has grown to the point of being alarming at times. A great example of how things have changed is the news vehicles that we drive. They used to be giant billboards, with the call letters and the station slogan emblazoned in bold letters. Today, many stations across the country are choosing to leave the cars unmarked. The reason? They can become targets for unwanted attention as journalists have become polarizing figures to the public. I have spent countless hours talking to co-workers who struggle with the negativity that they deal with in the field and on social media.
Another major change, that is taking its toll, is the sheer volume of news being produced by many stations. 4p, 7p and extended morning shows newscasts are the norm now. And they are often added without stations bringing in enough staff to adequately support the increased work demands.
I’m not writing this to drone on about how work conditions need to improve. I do believe that tv news companies need to take a long look in the mirror and figure out how to change with the times, but I can talk about that another time. I am bringing up these issues, to talk about the mental health issues plaguing newsrooms. All of these problems are now playing out during a global pandemic and a time of major social unrest. I know first hand, that these issues, combined with other things that life throws at you, can be overwhelming and down right scary. I have been through my own personal journey and talked with many other journalists who are “struggling”. I’m not a doctor, nor do I play one in tv, but I want to pass along some thoughts that may help!
1 . You are not alone. You are likely having some of the same feelings as your co-workers. Share your feelings. Don’t be afraid to vent a little. Getting things off your chest can help and you may be surprised where “good advice” may come from. Most newsrooms have a varying range of ages and experience levels. Seek out the advice of a mentor at your station.
2. Leave your work - at work. I know this sounds simple enough, but it can be difficult. No matter what job you do, when you walk out that door, try to leave the frustrations behind. Try to stay off social media as much as possible. I know that sounds counter to our 24/7 news expectations, but the trolls out there can drag you down and seriously mess with your head during your off hours. Instead, go home and enjoy your family and friends. Don’t worry about the mistake you made today or what tomorrow may bring. That is part of the beauty of what we do. Every day and every newscast starts off as a blank slate. Take advantage of the fresh start.
3. Help from the top is available. You may feel like the station and company you work for is to blame for your frustration and unhappiness, but they can truly help. Every tv news company has an employee assistance program available. No matter how infuriating management may be at the local or national level, this helpline can be a lifeline. Nobody at your station will ever know, and the services offered are usually far reaching.
At the end of the day, we are not alone. We work in a business, where our shared experiences give us a bond, like few other professions. If you are feeling overwhelmed, please look around and ask for help!
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