The Diana Initiative 2021

In the past year, the lines between security professionals' work lives and home lives have become blurred. Many of us have struggled to make sense of competing work obligations, family commitments, and a news cycle which constantly drains our energy. How can we navigate these demands successfully and remain competent, healthy, and able to react to security threats?

Participants will learn lessons and strategies for psychological resilience informed by speakers' experiences conducting OSINT on social media to uncover election influence operations and defend against harmful propaganda on social media. Speakers will share our best tips for handling a constant stream of sensitive online content while confined to an apartment.

Attendees will be introduced to empirical research on psychosocial resilience and the elements of vicarious trauma, then learn tips for (1) physical and mental boundary-setting, (2) repeatedly viewing sensitive online content, (3) sorting through work and news alerts, and (4) connecting back to your organization's mission and values. We'll also lead demos of short relaxation exercises which can be done throughout the workday.

Each participant will leave with a toolbox of practical strategies and links to additional resources for hacking stress and burnout, and creating a healthier work-life balance.