Dr. Deborah V. Gross Talks Burnout in Journalists

SPJ Florida hosted Mississippi-based psychiatrist Dr. Deborah V. Gross on Friday, Dec. 10 to address burnout among journalists. She detailed the symptoms and causes of burnout and demystified the syndrome for non-mental health professionals.

Dr. Gross cited studies showing that as high as 90% of journalists and medical professionals are burning out during the COVID-19 pandemic. She compared the two professions and illustrated how constant deadlines, pressure and responsibility will overwhelm any individual’s ability to cope or compartmentalize long-term. During the session, she offered some coping mechanisms for attendees and emphasized the need for immediate and “ruthless” self-care.

“Your work is important. It’s mighty,” Dr. Gross said. “But you as a person are also important, singular, mighty…getting help is not a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of intelligence.”