A mass traumatic event refers to an actual event in which the physical integrity or life of a group of people was threatened and/or harmed (Tarvydas et al., 2017). In Quebec, the Lac-Mégantic rail accident in 2013 is an example of a traumatic event that received extensive media coverage. The same is true of the attack on a Laval daycare center by a bus driver in 2023. These days, it is becoming increasingly difficult to escape the presence of such events in the media. With the development of information technologies and the growing use of social media, the general population can more easily access stories and striking images of potentially traumatic events. Indeed, they can be accessed simply by turning on their TV, computer or cell phone (Holman et al., 2020). Consequently, exposure to such events in the media can present a risk to the audience.

One might ask whether it is possible to develop post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after being exposed to a mass traumatic event in the media. The answer is no. According to the DSM-5, repeated or extreme exposure to horrific details of a traumatic event is a criterion for the diagnosis of PTSD. However, this criterion does not apply to exposure through electronic media, television, films or photographs, unless this exposure is work-related (APA, 2013).

Nevertheless, we should not overlook the impact the media can have on their audiences, especially when a mass traumatic event occurs. In such circumstances, the audience is at greater risk of developing reactions linked to depression, anxiety and, above all, post-traumatic stress (Bernstein et al., 2007; Holman et al., 2020). It is normal to experience such reactions after seeing potentially traumatic content in the media. Generally, these reactions are more important in the moment and tend to diminish over time. For some people, these reactions last longer or are more intense (Neria & Sullivan, 2011). How can this be explained? In fact, some factors contribute to the persistence of post-traumatic stress reactions in certain individuals.

Generally speaking, the greater the number of hours spent consuming information relating to a mass traumatic event, the greater the impact on well-being. Also, the more detailed and explicit the media content consumed (e.g. bloody images or scenes of violence), the more post-traumatic stress symptoms will affect a person’s day-to-day functioning. Individuals who are geographically located closer to the event are also at greater risk of experiencing post-traumatic stress reactions (May & Wisco, 2016).

Today, the ubiquity of social media (e.g. Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) increases accessibility to information of all kinds. Audiences are therefore more at risk of being exposed to potentially traumatic content. Therefore, the use of social media tends to increase post-traumatic stress reactions in those who consult them regularly (Abdalla et al., 2021).

In short, exposure to mass traumatic events in the media can present a risk to psychological health. In such cases, vigilance and moderation are recommended to limit exposure to potentially traumatic content and to preserve well-being.