Journalism Fellowship 2026: Cover Workplace Mental Health with NPF in Washington, D.C.

Journalists looking to deepen their reporting on workplace mental health have an opportunity to gain specialized training through the Covering Workplace Mental Health Fellowship organized by the National Press Foundation. Scheduled for May 13–14, 2026, in Washington, D.C., this two-day fellowship is designed to equip reporters with the tools and insights needed to cover one of the most pressing issues in today’s workforce.

Program Overview

As workplace dynamics continue to evolve—with trends such as AI-powered therapy tools, return-to-office mandates, shifts in the gig economy, and generational differences—mental health has become a critical topic for journalists across beats. This fellowship aims to support accurate, nuanced, and in-depth reporting on workplace mental health, including emerging treatments, policies, and research.

The training will bring together selected business and health journalists for an intensive, in-person learning experience. Participants will engage directly with leading experts in organizational psychology and human resources, gaining valuable perspectives that can enhance their storytelling and reporting depth.

What Participants Will Gain

Fellows will have the opportunity to:

• Interact with subject-matter experts in workplace mental health, organizational psychology, and HR
• Learn best practices for reporting complex mental health issues in professional environments
• Hear firsthand insights from a recipient of the Carolyn C. Mattingly Award for Mental Health Reporting
• Strengthen their ability to produce impactful, evidence-based journalism
• Recharge professionally through a focused, collaborative learning environment

This initiative reflects the foundation’s broader commitment to advancing high-quality journalism through skill-building and knowledge-sharing opportunities.

Fellowship Benefits

The National Press Foundation will cover:

• Round-trip airfare
• Hotel accommodation
• Select meals during the program

This financial support ensures that selected fellows can fully participate without cost barriers.

Eligibility Criteria

The fellowship is highly competitive and open only to journalists based in the United States. Applicants from all media platforms—including print, digital, and broadcast—are encouraged to apply.

The program places a strong emphasis on diversity and inclusion. Applications are particularly encouraged from:

• Journalists of color
• Reporters covering marginalized communities
• Staff from local and nonprofit news organizations

It is important to note that while the fellowship addresses workplace mental health broadly, it is not specifically focused on mental health within newsrooms.

Participation Requirements

Attendance is mandatory for all sessions during the two-day program. Additionally, editors must commit to releasing selected journalists from their regular newsroom duties to allow full participation.

Application Details

• Application Deadline: April 7, 2026
• Program Dates: May 13–14, 2026
• Location: Washington, D.C.

Interested applicants are encouraged to apply early due to the competitive nature of the program.

Click Here To Apply

Sponsors and Partners

This fellowship is sponsored by the Luv U Project, with additional support from the American Psychological Association. The National Press Foundation retains full responsibility for the program’s editorial content.

Speakers for the fellowship will be announced on a rolling basis as confirmations are finalized. This program presents a unique opportunity for journalists to expand their expertise and produce more informed, impactful coverage of workplace mental health—an issue that continues to shape the modern workforce.