The mental wellbeing of journalists is crucial to producing quality reporting. Diving head-first into our careers often results in tunnel vision and a lack of introspection about our psychosocial health. Yet we can prevent our fears catching up with us if we allow ourselves to take the necessary steps toward healing.

Professionalism is intrinsic to journalism. We are here to tell a story properly. This heightened sense of responsibility helps to make the anxiety we may experience feel worthwhile.

"Your professionalism kicks in and all you're thinking about is the story -- what I need, what I have to get, what's important for the reader to know . . . If you're going to react emotionally, it's usually afterward."

Carolyn James, publisher of the Amityville Record, New York

Always remember to respect your own set of values. Behaving ethically will help you to feel better about the problems you confront as a journalist.

"It's called a shield of values, and it's equally applicable even inside an office environment because if you can identify a list of things that are your personal values or define you, this is the list that I will adhere to in any kind of situation."

Shraddha Verma, visiting fellow from Nepal, at the Marie Colvin Center for International Reporting, Fall 2023

Taking care of ourselves isn't linear or set in stone. What we do after we come home can determine whether or not we will succumb to mental strife. Finding what works for you is what will set you up for consistent success throughout your career.

Whether this involves meditation and self-reflection, taking a long bath, going to the gym, walking in the park, investing in hobbies, or even maintaining a skincare routine, these self-care regimens will allow you to process the events of the day and prepare for tomorrow.

Chandelis Duster, a reporter with CNN, has an app on her phone that sends her different affirmations throughout the day. She also shared the importance of faith in her life and wellbeing.

"I start my day with prayer and meditation, which helps to center me."

Chandelis Duster, reporter, CNN's race and equality team

Reading a novel at night helps war correspondent Christina Lamb keep intrusive thoughts at bay. Staying close to her family has also made a difference.

"The thing that's helped me a lot is that I have a family life. Sometimes it feels a bit like a double life. I took my son to football practice, straight from coming off the plane after being in an ambush. But it was also helpful to me, because it grounded me when I came back."

Christina Lamb, chief foreign correspondent, the Sunday Times of London

Paying attention to our feelings helps us to build resilience. Imagine yourself in a box. You can only see and feel what's confined to those four lines every time you're within the box. However, once you step out, you realize there's a whole room outside. Analyzing what we're feeling in the moment rather than being consumed by it will allow us to realize that what we're experiencing is just that -- a moment.

Knowing when it's time to step back and reach out for support will allow you to return to the field more quickly with a clear mind. It may feel scary to ask for help, but news organizations have resources that will help you to express your emotions and keep an eye out for colleagues who are also struggling.

Finally, it takes a village. Surrounding yourself with people who care about you is crucial for mental health. Human beings aren't naturally solitary creatures, our ancestors survived in numbers. You don't always have to be so strong, you can let other people take the weight off your shoulders when need be.

Having a proper support system will motivate you to become the best version of yourself. This will propel you back into reporting, knowing there are people waiting to hear, read, and watch the stories you have produced.