I might be a bit paranoid or overthinking things, but I’m feeling a bit nervous about getting my message across. I don’t need a camera or extensive research to publish this. You’re fantastic at telling stories, but it seems like no one is telling yours. Let me respectfully talk about you without any emotional attachment to my story. Perhaps it’s time for some bitter truth, Steve Juma report.
Beyond the flashy headlines and cameras, beyond the audience, you have a life. Beyond the never-ending assignments, you have a family or dependents to look after. No matter what role you play in this industry, at the end of the day, you are a father, mother, son, or daughter – not just a journalist.
There is a serious issue among us, and I am not immune either. It’s only a matter of time. I say this because I know I’m speaking to an audience where everyone thinks they have all the answers, but the harsh reality is catching up with us. We’re afraid to speak out because society sees us as their voice.
It’s not breaking news, but it’s a sad truth that we will see more cases of depression and premature deaths. Yes, I said more sudden deaths. Journalists are usually the first to report on societal issues, but we often neglect our own well-being. It seems like we’ve become too caught up in our own problems, thinking we’re invincible. At the end of the day, we’re not superheroes. Life has its own way of throwing challenges at us.
You may have all the important contacts in the country, positioned yourself as a knowledgeable expert on every subject, and even reported on some controversial topics. But now, some of us are questioning the necessity of bringing up certain traumatic assignments that are now coming back to haunt us.
You may have all the important contacts in the country, positioned yourself as a knowledgeable expert on every subject, and even reported on some controversial topics. But now, some of us are questioning the necessity of bringing up certain traumatic assignments that are now coming back to haunt us.
You were once the media’s favorite with a large following, but then your employer unexpectedly lets you go. Now you have bills to pay and a family to support. Even the toughest person would struggle mentally in this situation.
I know some people here who refuse to answer calls from their former or current coworkers, maybe because they think they’re better than them. But the funny thing is, they often end up in the same boat. Today, you might get away with some small crimes. I know plenty of folks here who have used their status as journalists to try and bend the rules a bit. They think they can just make a call and get off the hook.
In a recent case, a journalist dared the police to arrest him when they found him at a shady spot. He said he would call the top cop to get himself and his buddies out of trouble. But what happens when no one picks up your calls after you lose your job? Some of these situations are our own fault. We distance ourselves from our families, and when things go south, no one is there to help. They see you as a stranger because you’ve been living like a lone wolf.
I am aware of individuals here who refuse to answer calls from their former or current colleagues, possibly due to a sense of superiority. However, it is unfortunate that they often face similar consequences in most cases.
Today, some of you will commit minor offenses and manage to escape punishment. I am familiar with many individuals who have long exploited their status as journalists to manipulate the law, believing they can be pardoned simply by making a phone call.
In a recent incident, a journalist challenged the police to arrest him when he was discovered at an illegal alcohol brewing site. The young man boldly declared that he would contact the Inspector General to secure his release, along with his disrespectful companions. But what will happen when no one answers your calls after you lose your job?
Some of these situations are self-inflicted because we distance ourselves from our own families and society. When you inevitably face hardships, no one will show concern for your well-being. You will be a stranger to them, as you have chosen to separate yourself from the support of your loved ones.
I know of a former colleague who once found a medical appeal letter on his desk meant for another renowned journalist. He heartlessly threw the letter away and told me that when that person was his boss, he never listened to anyone.
Recently, a journalist had to relocate to his hometown of Kisii after being locked out by his landlord. Unfortunately, many other members are experiencing similar difficulties. If we are supposed to be represented, why aren’t these issues sparking any action? Who is advocating for journalists who have been unjustly fired? Do we have access to legal assistance? Are there any medical or insurance benefits for members? Are counseling sessions available to provide psychological support for those in need?
In the newsroom, there’s a lot of fake smiles and pretending, but most people try to keep up a brave front. Divisions among journalists can be seen in different ways. There’s a group of senior anchors, reporters, and camera crew who stick together, leaving the correspondents to fend for themselves.
Some people’s birthdays are remembered by a select few, maybe jotted down somewhere, while others only get attention when there’s cake involved. And when you’re let go, it’s like you never existed – no one bothers to reach out and check on you. It’s a harsh reality of the newsroom life.
I can go on and on, and we will get back to how the issues of mental health among journalists are addressed. Our best offer can’t be giving eulogies and condolence messages. This is a problem that needs to be addressed. You don’t need to do any research to see that something is not right. Just talk to a friend, and you will see that this issue is prevalent everywhere.
Some may choose to ignore this message, especially those who are actively practicing. Others may be hesitant to speak up due to their circumstances. However, life will continue on its course regardless.
Should we consider forming a task force to address this issue? It may be worth discussing further.
The ball is in your court and like- minded people.
The writer is a former NTV investigative journalist
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