We’re one year into the pandemic and many people around the world are feeling more exhausted than ever. It’s been a tough year for everyone, and not only have journalists had to cope with the loss and loneliness of COVID-19, they’ve had to cover it.
Journalists have long been on the frontlines of crisis — from car crashes and crimes to war and disaster. Add to the mix traumatic imagery, digital overload, widespread layoffs and working from home, and we see the all-around toll it’s taking on the mental health of colleagues globally.
In the spring, we launched a six-part series as part of our podcast IJNotes, which focuses on mental health and journalism. We speak to experts and journalists about PTSD, vicarious trauma, burnout, pandemic loneliness and so much more.
But we know we aren’t the only ones podcasting about mental health.
Check out our list of 10 mental health podcasts, which we recommend for anyone who needs a little support right now.
(1) The Hilarious World of Depression
Depression is one of the most common mental illnesses, but still often misunderstood. In this podcast, host John Moe interviews guests about the disease. While conversations are frank and heavy, they’re also mixed with a heavy dose of humor. This podcast will help listeners better understand depression and build community around the disease.
[Read more: Mental health tips and resources for journalists]
(2) The Happiness Lab
In this podcast, Yale University professor Dr. Laurie Santos shares scientific research and evidence on happiness. Spoiler: happiness isn’t all about more money, a new job or vacations — but about learning new ways to engage your mind to take control of your own happiness.
(3) Mental illness happy hour
Comedian Paul Gilmartin interviews artists, friends, doctors and more about all types of mental illness to help you realize that no matter what you’re feeling, you aren’t alone.
(4) Therapy for Black Girls
Dr. Joy Harden Bradford’s podcast addresses a wide range of topics on mental health, wellbeing, personal development and professional growth specifically geared towards Black women. She discusses topics like complex PTSD, which she covers on her most recent episode, while also demystifying and destigmatizing therapy and support.
(5) Mental
Hosts Bobby Temps and Danielle Hogan break down a wide range of mental health topics including trauma, depression, anxiety and grief. Through guest interviews, they also explore how these topics affect different communities.
[Read more: Managing stress and digital overload as a journalist]
(6) The Anxiety Coaches
Are you looking for support to work through anxiety or PTSD? This podcast might have something for you. While no podcast can replace professional support, this is a great place to learn techniques for managing anxiety and/or panic.
(7) Latinx Therapy
This podcast is offered in Spanish and English and is geared towards Latinos, Latinas and Latinx people looking to make sense of challenges and diagnoses. Host Adriana Alejandre, LMFT addresses common stigmas and a diverse range of topics with Latinx mental health professionals, bloggers, psychiatrists, influencers and more.
(8) Not Another Anxiety Show
You might experience anxiety, but how much do you really understand it? In this podcast, registered nurse Kelli Walker speaks with expert guests to break down what anxiety really is, how it affects us and how we can move past it.
(9) Ten Percent Happier
Dan Harris is a news anchor who had a panic attack on live television. Afterwards, he delved into the world of meditation. In his podcast, he hosts an array of expert guests to discuss meditation practice, as well as social anxiety, productivity, creativity and much more.
Noticing thoughts and feelings and being distracted by them are two different things. When you notice a sensation arise, can you offer yourself a gentle mental note instead of getting aboard that runaway thought train? #TuesdayTips pic.twitter.com/DOxyX3mhpl
— Ten Percent Happier (@10percent) February 23, 2021
(10) Stories of Stigma
MannMukti is a website with mental health resources for South Asians. Through their podcast “Stories of Stigma,” they hope to eliminate shame and silence around mental illness in the community.
Main image CC-licensed by Unsplash via Joel De Vera.
Taylor Mulcahey is the Managing Editor of IJNet.
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