A recent national survey of Kenyan journalists has found that 65 percent exhibit moderate to severe depressive symptoms, according to the PHQ-9 screening tool used for the study. The survey, titled “The Pain Behind the Byline: State of Welfare and Social Protection for Journalists in Kenya”, was compiled jointly by the Kenya Union of Journalists and the Media Council of Kenya. This study highlights the welfare challenges faced by journalists in Kenya.
The survey was presented at a one-day conference for media stakeholders, where Cabinet Secretary for Co-operatives Wycliffe Oparanya delivered the keynote address. This government attention to journalists’ welfare signals a recognition of the challenges they face. Overall, 83 percent of respondents reported some level of depressive symptoms, with 25 percent falling into the severe category.
The study also found that 80 percent of journalists said their depressive symptoms interfered with their day-to-day work. However, only a quarter had sought professional mental-health support. This disparity suggests that many journalists are struggling with their mental health but are not receiving the necessary support.
The survey highlighted that more than half of the journalists earn less than Sh50,000 a month. Notably, 71.4 percent of those in the severe depression group earn below that threshold, suggesting a link between low earnings and symptom severity. This correlation underscores the potential impact of financial stress on mental health.
Freelance journalists are particularly affected, with 72 percent reporting moderate to severe symptoms, compared with 55.6 percent of correspondents and 33.4 percent of permanent staff. This disparity suggests that employment status may play a role in the severity of depressive symptoms experienced by journalists.
The study also highlighted that 65 percent of respondents have experienced heavier workloads over the past five years. Additionally, 82 percent receive no allowances or bonuses, and non-permanent workers have limited access to medical insurance. These factors may exacerbate the mental health challenges faced by journalists.
Beyond mental health, journalists reported exposure to physical threats, denial of access, and psychological harassment in the course of their work. These findings emphasize the need for comprehensive support systems for journalists, addressing both their mental health and workplace challenges.
Key points
- Low pay and heavy workloads are common among Kenyan journalists, contributing to high rates of depression.
- Freelance journalists are disproportionately affected by depressive symptoms.
- Most journalists with depressive symptoms have not sought professional mental health support.
