Journalism and Well-Being: A Systematic Review of Mental Health Research in News Work (2000–2024)
SI1/2026
Authors: Gabriela Ferreira & Dora Santos-Silva
Citation: Ferreira, G., & Santos-Silva, D. (2026). Journalism and Well-Being: A Systematic Review of Mental Health Research in News Work (2000–2024). Mediální studia 20(SI1), 36–59. https://doi.org/10.65502/si1-2026.03
Abstract: Journalists operate in increasingly connected and digitally saturated workplaces, where reporting often involves navigating significant emotional challenges (Wahl-Jorgensen, 2019; Šimunjak, 2022). However, the psychological toll of journalism work has historically been overshadowed by objectivity as a strategic ritual (Tuchman, 1972). Recent scholarly attention has begun to address these tensions and their impact on journalists’ well-being (Hopper & Huxford, 2015). This article presents a systematic literature review of academic studies examining the intersections between journalism, mental health, and well-being. Using PRISMA guidelines, we analysed 60 peer-reviewed English-language articles (2000-2024), retrieved from Scopus and Web of Science. We address two research questions: (RQ1) How have academic studies defined and conceptualized “well-being,” “mental health,” and “mental illness” within journalism? (RQ2) What dominant debates, emerging trends and persistent gaps characterize this literature? Findings indicate a post-pandemic shift in research priorities from trauma-centered frameworks to broader concerns with occupational health, emotional regulation and support mechanisms.
Keywords: Journalism ■ Well-being ■ Mental Health ■ Mental Illness ■ Systematic Literature Review