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Having spent almost 25 years working in the news industry, I am living my dream as a journalist. However, I have come to realize the toll it takes on my life. The atrocities I witnessed during the Hamas attacks on October 7 were too horrifying to put into words. Scenes of unspeakable acts committed against people of all ages, from babies to older women and young teens, are etched forever in my memory.
My name is Yonat Friling, and I am a Senior Field Producer for Fox News Media, based in the Jerusalem Bureau. Sadly, I have lost friends and colleagues in this recent wave of terror attacks. It seems like everyone in Israel knows someone who has been affected, whether they were murdered, kidnapped, or are currently fighting Hamas. This pervasive sense of loss has affected nearly every household in the country.
Israeli Shelling at Lebanon Border: A Tragic Loss for Journalists
There are 70,000 individuals living near the Israel-Gaza border, and within just 24 hours, over 1,000 of them lost their lives. Families seeking shelter on a sunny Saturday morning were mercilessly killed. Some endured hours of isolation, without electricity or water, barricading themselves from the Hamas militants. Each story we hear is more unfathomable and disturbing than the last.
The aftermath of the Hamas attacks has cast a dark shadow over Israel. Streets are empty, shops are closed, and there is an eerie silence wherever you go. The presence of the army and police is overwhelming, and the air is filled with smoke from the rockets and airstrikes.
In the communities closest to the border, the homes of Israelis have been destroyed, leaving behind a bleak and desolate landscape. As someone who has covered many wars and conflicts in Israel, I can confidently say that this is the hardest one I have experienced. Finding the right words to convey my emotions seems impossible, as time becomes a precious commodity amidst the chaos.
One thing that has amazed me throughout this tragedy is the resilience and compassion of the people of Israel. Despite their shock, they immediately rallied together to organize blood drives, food deliveries, and offer their homes to strangers. These acts of kindness provide some solace amidst the suffering.
Recently, on October 10, World Mental Health Day reminded us of the importance of addressing our emotional well-being. As journalists, we often find ourselves in the midst of traumatic events, witnessing violence and human suffering. We strive to tell the stories of the victims, approaching them with care and respect. However, studies show that 92% of journalists have experienced at least four traumatic situations.
It is crucial for us to acknowledge the impact these experiences have on us, both personally and professionally. We need to recognize the signs of vicarious trauma and provide support for our colleagues in the field and in the newsrooms. By openly discussing our emotions and vulnerabilities, we can break free from the shame and vulnerability that surrounds this issue.
Building better programs and resources for journalists to cope with the emotional challenges of their work is essential. Together, we can change the narrative surrounding mental health and rebuild our emotional strength. My name is Yonat Friling, and I encourage you to join me on this journey.
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