Simple tips for journalists who need to take care of themselves while on their break.
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In the midst of the summer holiday season in Europe, the pace of news does not always ease up, but we must slow down. For many of us journalists, the pressure to be alert and available is a year-round reality.
But the nature of our work, which often involves covering traumatic stories or working in hostile environments, makes the need for intentional rest not just a luxury but a professional necessity.
As the industry continues to become ever more precarious, with pay rates dwindling, news media shutting down, and journalists under increasing attack, it is more important than ever for journalists to prioritize their mental and physical well-being, including taking uninterrupted summer breaks from the myriad pressures of the industry.
Before going on your summer holiday break this year, take a moment to look at the self-care resources available on the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma website. You will find a treasure trove of tips on how journalists can take care of themselves and resources on how to report on violence, conflict and tragedy ethically.
And perhaps also consider these few simple tips for taking care of yourself while on your break.
First of all, remember to treat your holiday as a proper time off because self-care is not optional. It is a responsibility we owe to our work, our contributors and to ourselves.
Think carefully about how much news you need to consume. Remember you are on holiday, so you don’t need to know everything.
If you do need to check the news, then limit how much time you spend on it.
Think about setting clear digital boundaries. Will you check emails once a day, week or not at all? Do you need to turn off social media notifications, mute or even deactivate some apps?
If anyone asks you to do any work while on your holiday, think carefully before saying “yes”. Remember, it is absolutely okay to say “no”!
Try to use your time off to reconnect with life beyond journalism. Read fiction, go for a hike, see art, try salsa dancing or simply do nothing – whatever brings you back to yourself in the present moment.
If you truly switch off during your break, you’ll come back not only rested, but also with more energy to devote to your work.
And finally, remember that self-care is not a luxury. So, be kind to yourself and take the time to enjoy your summer holidays.
*Ismail Einashe, is a writer and investigative journalist. He is an Ochberg Fellow at the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma at Columbia University Journalism School.
