Global Rally: Content Moderators Demand Mental Health Support in the Digital Age

Globally, content moderators are uniting in a call for enhanced mental health support amidst increasing exposure to distressing online content. Moderators bear the brunt of traumatic images, leading to mental health challenges such as anxiety and suicidal thoughts. To address these concerns, they are advocating for better mental health protocols from tech giants.

Many moderators describe job-related stress, insufficient sleep, and limited psychological help, often provided as superficial support. Efforts by moderators to unionize and press for their rights and well-being have been met with resistance, including job termination in some cases. The rise of AI in content moderation further exacerbates job security concerns.

The Global Trade Union Alliance is pushing for robust protections, emphasizing exposure limits and mental health training. Despite assertions of support from companies like Meta and Telus, moderators feel drastic improvements are needed. New European regulatory measures are poised to bolster workers' rights, providing a legal basis for content moderator protections.

(With inputs from agencies.)