National Survey to Explore the Mental Health of Irish Journalists and Strengthen Supports for the Media Sector

Shine's Media Programme and Maynooth University are inviting journalists and media workers from across Ireland to participate in a new national survey examining mental health, wellbeing and the realities of reporting on mental illness in today's media landscape.

The study, led by Dr Anne O'Brien of the Department of Media Studies at Maynooth University in collaboration with Shine's Media Programme, seeks to better understand the challenges facing journalists and identify practical actions that can strengthen supports, training and workplace wellbeing across the sector.

Funded through a New Foundations Research Grant from Research Ireland, the project brings together academic expertise and frontline industry experience to address issues of national importance. The New Foundations programme specifically supports research that delivers real-world benefits for communities, organisations and policymakers, ensuring that findings translate into meaningful action.

International research suggests that journalists experience disproportionately high levels of stress, burnout, anxiety, depression and psychological distress than the general population. At the same time, the profession has undergone significant change, with increased workloads, rapid news cycles, online abuse, job insecurity and an increasingly "always-on" working culture. A 2019 British study of media workers found that of 9,399 survey participants, over half (55%) contemplated taking their own life and 87% reported mental health challenges (Wilkes, Carey & Florisson, 2020). We want to understand this in an Irish context.  The survey will explore whether similar challenges are being experienced by journalists and media workers in Ireland and will examine the factors that may be contributing. In addition, the research will investigate journalists' experiences of reporting on mental illness, including the barriers they face and the supports they need to cover the topic with confidence, accuracy and sensitivity.

"Journalism is an essential public service and a cornerstone of a healthy democracy," said Dr Anne O'Brien. "We know from international research that journalists can face significant pressures in their work, but there is currently limited evidence about the Irish context. This study aims to build that evidence base and ensure that future supports are informed by the lived experiences of journalists themselves."  

For Shine, the research represents a natural extension of nearly two decades of partnership with the Irish media sector. Since 2007, Shine's Media Programme has worked collaboratively with journalists, editors, producers and news organisations to support accurate, responsible and stigma-free reporting on mental health. Through training, guidance, research, fellowships and the Mental Health Media Awards, the programme has sought to strengthen public understanding of mental health while supporting high standards in journalism.

Shine's Media Programme Lead, Áine O’Meara, said,

“By understanding both the realities of journalists' wellbeing and the challenges they face when reporting on mental illness, we can ensure that the supports, training and resources we provide are grounded in evidence and shaped by the needs of the sector. Ultimately, this research is about strengthening journalism by supporting the people who make it possible."

The research will culminate in a national report, stakeholder engagement activities and revisions to existing training and support resources. Findings will also contribute to broader discussions about workplace wellbeing, professional development and the sustainability of journalism in Ireland.

All journalists and media workers, regardless of their platform, experience level or employment status, are encouraged to participate. The survey is anonymous, and participation will help ensure that future supports and training reflect the realities of contemporary journalism in Ireland.

Why participate?

• Help build the first comprehensive picture of journalist wellbeing in Ireland.
• Inform practical supports and training for media professionals.
• Contribute to improving how mental illness is covered across Irish media.
• Ensure journalists' experiences help shape future policy, training and industry supports.
• Support a collaborative initiative designed to strengthen both journalist wellbeing and public-interest journalism.

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Link to survey: https://app.onlinesurveys.jisc.ac.uk/s/maynoothuniversity/mental-health-and-irish-journalism-survey-june-2026