What happens when the news we consume starts affecting our mental health?
In this episode of the MHAE Podcast, I sit down with Hala Nasar, social media journalist at The National, to explore the complicated relationship between journalism, mental health, and the overwhelming amount of information we consume every day. In a world of breaking news, sensational headlines, misinformation, and endless doomscrolling, we discuss how the stories we read and share shape our emotions, influence our perceptions, and sometimes create unnecessary fear and anxiety.
We dive into the responsibilities journalists carry when reporting on sensitive issues, the importance of prioritizing accuracy over speed, and how to distinguish credible reporting from misinformation. We also explore the growing influence of artificial intelligence in journalism, from AI-generated fake images and videos to concerns about job displacement and the future of human creativity. Along the way, I share some personal experiences of navigating fear and uncertainty during regional tensions, and we discuss practical ways to stay informed without sacrificing our mental well-being.
Hala also shares her exciting journey as a recipient of the Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism and her plans to dedicate the second season of her podcast, "How to Adult", to exploring the mental health challenges facing young adults in our region. From responsible journalism to digital literacy, emotional resilience, and the importance of trusted information, this conversation is a reminder that staying informed matters, but so does protecting our peace of mind.
PodcastersAli Khawaja | https://alikhawaja.com
Hala Nasar | https://www.instagram.com/halaanasarr
MHAE Website | https://www.mentalhealth.ae
MHAE Instagram | / mentalhealthae
Outline
00:00 - Introduction: Meet Hala Nasar
Ali welcomes journalist Hala Nasar to the podcast for a full-circle conversation about journalism, mental health, and her journey from editing the show to becoming a guest.
02:18 - The Mental Health Impact of Journalism
Hala explains how covering difficult global events can affect journalists personally, and how every news story carries a potential mental health dimension.
04:40 - Sensationalism and the Responsibility of News Media
Ali and Hala explore why negative stories dominate headlines and the ethical responsibility journalists have to inform audiences without amplifying fear.
08:49 - Fake News, Fact-Checking, and Journalistic Integrity
Why should accuracy always come before speed? Hala explains how journalists verify information, evaluate sources, and maintain public trust.
12:25 - Beyond the Headlines: Making News Meaningful
The conversation shifts to the importance of explaining what news actually means, the role of subject-matter experts, and making complex stories accessible through social media.
20:17 - Doomscrolling, News Fatigue, and Anxiety
Ali and Hala discuss how algorithms, conspiracy theories, and constant exposure to alarming content can intensify stress, anxiety, and fear.
24:06 - Protecting Your Mental Health During Uncertain Times
Ali shares practical strategies for limiting news consumption, choosing trusted information sources, and helping friends and family navigate uncertainty.
28:04 - Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Journalism
Can AI replace journalists and writers? Hala and Ali discuss job disruption, human creativity, AI-generated misinformation,
34:19 - When Fear Becomes More Powerful Than Facts
Through personal experiences during regional tensions, Ali and Hala examine how misinformation spreads panic and why verified information can help people make calmer decisions.
39:43 - Hala's Mental Health Journalism Fellowship and What's Next
Hala discusses receiving the Rosalynn Carter Fellowship for Mental Health Journalism and her plans for a mental health-focused season of How to Adult, exploring challenges facing young adults in the region.