Journalism school hosting D.C. event on covering, coping with PTSD

LAWRENCE — When the military goes to war, journalists follow. While the two groups have different roles to play, they do share common ground: Their experiences in combat zones can lead to post-traumatic stress disorder, or PTSD.

To help journalists learn how better to cover PTSD — and how better to cope with their own PTSD — the William Allen White School of Journalism and Mass Communications at the University of Kansas will host a daylong workshop this fall. The workshop, scheduled for Nov. 16, will be at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The McCormick Foundation is funding this event.

The workshop will include the following:

• An update from medical experts on what is known about PTSD today;

• A panel discussion with military officials on their experiences with PTSD and suggestions on how journalists can improve coverage of this issue; and

• A panel discussion with journalists who will discuss their own PTSD and offer suggestions and resources for journalists coping with PTSD.

This workshop is recommended for working journalists who have covered combat and their editors and for health-care reporters.

Workshop enrollment is limited to 35 journalists. However, observers are welcome.

For more information or to learn how to apply, contact Barbara Barnett at KU.