Delivering Devasting News: How Journalists Cope

From left, Mike Walter, Biz Asia America general news anchor, and Lolita Lopez, KNBC-TV Los Angeles general assignment reporter

Every day, SAG-AFTRA broadcasters take to the front lines to deliver unfettered news that has the potential to traumatize and affect their emotional state. On Aug. 27, SAG-AFTRA presented Breaking News, Breaking Down with five-time Emmy Award-winning journalist Mike Walter and KNBC-TV General Assignment Reporter Lolita Lopez. Both member broadcasters shared their personal experiences with emotional stress and enlightened members on how they cope with delivering difficult news.

Catastrophic disasters can strike our nation at a moment’s notice and are often gruesome and horrific. Walter and Lopez discussed the emotional and psychological tolls these stories can bring.

Walter created the documentary Breaking News, Breaking Down to shed light on the emotional stress that can ensue when reporting disasters. The documentary, which was screened during the seminar, showed footage of Walter covering the 9/11 attacks and illustrates the impact of news on those reporting.

Lopez, too, described her own experiences on 9/11 as well as her personal journey of using her own illness to educate her audience on cancer. Lopez now tries to find the positive in difficult stories and ensures that work is left at work so her emotional state remains intact.

Both Walter and Lopez discussed the importance of seeking professional help when reporting on stressful topics because of the emotional trauma that can occur.

To learn more about broadcast contracts, safety tips and more, click here.

This item was originally featured in the September 2013 local newsletter.