Lorraine Kelly’s mental health masterclass

Published on 7, March, 2024

ITV presenter Lorraine Kelly has talked to journalism students at the University of Sunderland about how to manage their mental health when reporting on distressing events.

Lorraine, who was deeply affected by covering the Lockerbie and Dunblane tragedies, was part of the University's Mental Health and Resilience in Journalism event to prepare students for the real world of journalism.

“It’s okay not to feel fine as a journalist,” Lorraine said.

“You need to ask for help, it doesn’t mean there is something wrong with you.”

Lorraine, who joined the event via Zoom, also offered advice on how to deal social media abuse.

“Don't let social media trolls get to you, don't take it to heart.”

BBC Sports football commentator Vicki Sparks was also a guest speaker.

Carole Watson, Associate Head of School for Journalism and Communications at the University of Sunderland, said: “In terms of employability, it is vitally important we prepare our students for the real world of journalism, and that includes how they deal with potential social media trolling and their own mental health when covering upsetting stories.

“They learned a lot from Lorraine and Vicki – despite being a bit starstruck!

“Lorraine gave some excellent advice which I’m sure will stick with them about not being afraid to reach out for help if traumatised, and how to deal with any social media abuse."

Carole added: “Two of our journalism academics, Daisy Naylor and Julia Breen, also organised interactive workshops - with the help of colleagues in psychology and technology – and there were free snacks and stress balls for every student.

"The journalism team all contributed in making this an innovative extra-curricular event which I hope will benefit every student in their career.”

Find out more about studying journalism at the University of Sunderland. 

>