CNN announced today that it was incresing its funding for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder research…

CNN, the industry leader in journalism safety training and researchers of post traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), is again teaming up with Dr. Anthony Feinstein, the world’s foremost authority on PTSD in journalists, to initially fund a unique web-based clinic and research facility.

Available to all media organizations and journalists around the world, the new web site will provide a confidential and self-help resource for all journalists, even those who do not have access to a company-supported PTSD source. One of the innovative aspects to this service is that journalists will be able to use it while on assignment in zones of conflict.

The creation of the new site was announced by Dr. Feinstein and CNN at the annual NewsXchange conference, which takes place this year in Istanbul Turkey on November 2 and 3.

“Research over the past six years has shown that journalists and media workers on front-line assignments may develop symptoms of distress due to the escalating dangers confronted,” said Feinstein. “This new web site will enable us to broaden our understanding of how journalists are responding emotionally to these challenges while also providing immediate feedback to those who are searching for answers and guidance.”

The web-based program will allow journalists to complete self assessments with respect to symptoms of PTSD, depression, general psychological well-being and alcohol and substance use. Immediate feedback with the option of a printout will be given to all web users. This can then be used to facilitate access to a family doctor or an Employee Assistance Program for therapy, if required. Future development of the site is to include versions in different languages.

“Dr. Feinstein’s previous research has helped countless colleagues inside and outside of CNN,” said Chris Cramer, Managing Director of CNN International. “This is an area of staff welfare that media companies need to address, particularly in an era where the media is seen as being fair game in many parts of the world.”