By Joshua Otieno, June 19, 2026
MOMBASA, Kenya – Mombasa Press Club Chairman Omar Abdallah, popularly known as Ommy Dallah, has called on journalists to break the culture of silence and seek help whenever they experience emotional distress or professional challenges, warning that failure to do so could lead to serious mental health problems.
Speaking during a media interview, Abdallah noted that mental health concerns are increasingly affecting media practitioners due to the demanding nature of their work, exposure to traumatic events, job insecurity, and workplace pressures.
He urged journalists to be open about their struggles, noting that silence often worsens mental health conditions.
“We must encourage journalists to speak out whenever they are facing challenges. Keeping problems to yourself can have serious consequences on one’s mental health and overall well-being,” Abdallah said.
He observed that many journalists continue to suffer in silence despite rising cases of stress, anxiety, depression, and burnout within the profession.
“As journalists, we are often expected to be strong and resilient, but we are also human beings. We face the same challenges as everyone else, and sometimes even more because of the nature of our work. There should be no shame in seeking support,” he added.
The Mombasa Press Club chairman revealed that the organisation is working with partners to roll out a comprehensive mental health training programme for journalists.
According to Abdallah, the initiative aims to equip media practitioners with skills to identify mental health challenges early, manage stress, and access professional psychosocial support when needed.
“We are working closely with our partners to organise mental health training sessions for journalists. The goal is to create awareness, build resilience, and provide practical coping mechanisms that can help media practitioners navigate the pressures of the profession,” he said.
He emphasized that mental wellness is essential for effective journalism and urged media houses and stakeholders to invest in psychosocial support systems.
“A journalist who is mentally healthy is better placed to serve the public effectively, tell impactful stories, and uphold professional standards. Mental health should be treated with the same seriousness as physical health,” Abdallah noted.
He further called on media institutions, professional bodies, and development partners to create safe spaces where journalists can openly discuss challenges without stigma.
The planned training comes amid growing concerns over journalist welfare globally, with media workers increasingly exposed to traumatic reporting environments, online harassment, job insecurity, and long working hours.
Mombasa Press Club says it will continue strengthening welfare and professional development programmes to support journalists across the coastal region.
