In journalism, breaking news refers to a story that is developing and has not yet been fully reported on. This could be something like a plane crash, fire, or natural disaster. Breaking news stories usually cause great concern among the public, so they need to be reported quickly and accurately. This can be challenging when multiple media outlets are covering the same event, and there is competition to be first with the information.
Breaking bad news is difficult for both the messenger and the receiver, and many people have an instinct to soften the message. This is particularly true when the bad news is a death, or when it involves other personal, life-changing events. It is also important to consider the broader objective of the bad news, such as getting a patient to follow their treatment plan, or achieving a peaceful transition in a job termination.
The best way to break bad news is in person, but this is not always possible. If it must be done over the phone or by email, then the message should be brief and clear. Euphemisms and vagueness can make the message more confusing and upsetting, especially when the recipient is anxious.
It is also important to prepare yourself for the conversation by working through your own reaction. Be sure to take care of yourself, and give yourself time to recover. This will help you to be present with the other person, and not distracted by your own emotions or anxieties about what is to come.