The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) recently called upon journalists in South Sudan to improve their reporting on mental health issues. This appeal was made ahead of World Mental Health Day, observed annually on October 10. The ICRC emphasized the need for more responsible and sensitive approaches when covering individuals affected by psychological distress. This initiative aims to promote better understanding and reporting of mental health issues in the country.
A workshop was organized by the ICRC to facilitate the exchange of knowledge and experiences between the organization and members of the media. During the workshop, ICRC Communication Coordinator Germain Mwehu highlighted the importance of mental health reporting. He encouraged journalists to share their experiences and learn from each other. The workshop provided a platform for journalists to discuss mental health and deepen their understanding of the challenges faced by people experiencing psychological distress.
Mwehu emphasized that journalists have valuable experience in reporting issues affecting communities, and the ICRC also wanted to learn from their experiences. The workshop was designed to be an interactive session, allowing journalists to actively participate in discussions and share their field experiences. Mwehu added that the ICRC had previously organized similar workshops with journalists on issues including social violence and disability.
The ICRC Health Coordinator, Rose, also participated in the workshop, stressing that it was designed as an exchange of experiences. An expert was available to provide additional information on mental health. Rose encouraged journalists to use the workshop as an opportunity to deepen their understanding of mental health and contribute to more informed public discussions on the issue.
Mental health remains a significant issue in South Sudan, requiring greater public discussion and responsible media coverage. The ICRC's initiative aims to promote better understanding and reporting of mental health issues. Journalists were encouraged to adopt more sensitive approaches when covering individuals affected by psychological distress.
The workshop was not intended to be a one-way training, but rather an opportunity for mutual learning between journalists and the ICRC staff. Mwehu encouraged journalists, including freelancers, to actively participate in the discussions and share their experiences from the field. This approach will help ensure that the ICRC and journalists can learn from each other and improve mental health reporting.
The ICRC's efforts to strengthen mental health reporting in South Sudan are ongoing. The organization recognizes the importance of responsible media coverage in promoting better understanding and awareness of mental health issues. By working with journalists, the ICRC aims to contribute to more informed public discussions and improved support for individuals affected by psychological distress.
Key points
- The ICRC urges journalists in South Sudan to strengthen reporting on mental health issues and adopt more responsible approaches.
