FilmForward, Cinemind and Movies That Matter present a two-day programme focusing on the mental health of documentary filmmakers, with psychotherapist and former documentary producer Rebecca Day (Film in Mind). On Tuesday we start with this Masterclass Mental Health in Documentary Filmmaking: the impact of telling stories. A day later, on Wednesday 25 March, there is a Deep Dive: Navigating Trauma in Documentary Work.
Documentary filmmakers, producers, and other film professionals often work closely with distressing stories and vulnerable communities, and may themselves be part of these communities. What impact does this have on our brains and bodies? How do we recognise signs of vicarious or secondary trauma? And how can we build sustainable, ethical working practices, for ourselves, our crews, and the people whose stories we tell?
During Movies That Matter Cinemind and FilmForward present a two-day programme focused on the mental health of documentary filmmakers, with psychotherapist and former documentary producer Rebecca Day.
On Tuesday 24 March, Day will give a Masterclass delving into the psychological and neurological impact of working with traumatic material. Drawing on real-life examples, the session will address:
- What happens in our brain and body when we are exposed to trauma
- How to recognise the signs of vicarious trauma
- Duty of care and ethical responsibility in documentary practice
The next day, on Wednesday 25 March, there will be a Deep Dive: Navigating Trauma in Documentary Work. This session is held in small capacity (maximum of 15 participants) and is designed for filmmakers and film professionals working with sensitive subject matter. Read more through the Deep Dive page.
Who is this Masterclass for?
This session is open to filmmakers, producers, journalists, activists, and other professionals working with urgent and sensitive subject matter.
Practical information
Date: Tuesday 24 March
Time: 15.00 to 16.30
Location: Filmhuis Den Haag
Free entry, but registration is mandatory. Register through the link at the top of the page.
Rebecca Day
Rebecca Day is a psychotherapist, former documentary producer, and founder of Film in Mind, an organisation dedicated to mental health, ethical practice, and trauma-informed approaches within the film sector.
This programme is a collaboration between FilmForward, Cinemind, and Movies That Matter.