WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The National Association of Broadcasters announced today that local radio and TV stations across America have donated airtime valued at over $12 million for NAB's 'OK2Talk' mental health public service announcement campaign. This includes over 106,600 airings on local TV and radio stations.
In response to today's announcement, NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith said, "NAB salutes the efforts of broadcasters across America to make a real difference on the issue of mental health. As stewards of the airwaves, local radio and television broadcasters and our network partners have a unique megaphone and a remarkable capacity to change attitudes in a positive way. Mental health issues are often the common thread in tragedies like the Navy Yard shooting this week. We thank our broadcast brothers and sisters for their support for the NAB campaign, and urge them to continue carrying these pro-social messages that encourage a meaningful dialogue on mental health."
The PSA campaign, launched on July 23, directs people to OK2TALK.org, a Tumblr-based community where teens and young adults struggling with mental health problems can share personal stories of recovery, tragedy, struggle or hope. By inviting young people, their families and friends to add their voice in a safe, moderated space, the campaign encourages an organic conversation about mental health challenges and recovery stories. The site also includes resources for those seeking help.
OK2TALK.org has seen significant engagement following the launch of the campaign, with over 256,000 page views, 15,387 followers and 2,003 submissions. The site has also seen more than 23,000 clicks on the "Get Help" button, which takes visitors to mentalhealth.gov/ and suicide prevention resources.
n addition to the thousands of broadcast stations that have committed air time and financial resources in support of OK2TALK, partners in the effort include: Active Minds, Bring Change 2 Mind, Each Mind Matters, Entertainment Industries Council (EIC), Mental Health America, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), One Mind for Research and Tumblr.
For more information about OK2TALK, visit nab.org/ok2talk.
About NAB
The National Association of Broadcasters is the premier advocacy association for America's broadcasters. NAB advances radio and television interests in legislative, regulatory and public affairs. Through advocacy, education and innovation, NAB enables broadcasters to best serve their communities, strengthen their businesses and seize new opportunities in the digital age. Learn more at www.nab.org.
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