WASHINGTON, D.C. -- The National Association of Broadcasters announced today that local radio and TV stations across America have donated airtime valued at over $35.5 million (up from $26.4 million in December) for NAB's "OK2TALK" mental health public service announcement campaign. This includes more than 293,380 TV and radio airings.
NAB also announced that the OK2TALK campaign won the award for Best Video and/or Podcast Program at the 2014 PR News Nonprofit Awards, held today at the National Press Club in Washington, D.C. The Awards honor nonprofits for the best PR campaigns and communications initiatives of the year.
In response to today's announcements, NAB President and CEO Gordon Smith said, "We appreciate the generous support that the OK2TALK campaign has received. We encourage stations to continue to use the campaign to drive home the message that it's okay to talk about mental health; that help is available and effective; that if you need help, you should get it; and, that if you know someone who is struggling, help them to get help. The overwhelming response on the OK2TALK Tumblr page makes clear how serious a problem this issue is in our society."
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 more than 1.1 million page views, 25,900 followers and 6,040 submissions. The site has also seen more than 108,000 clicks on the "Get Help" button, which takes visitors to mentalhealth.gov/ and suicide prevention resources.
In 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.
Organizations that would like to partner with the campaign to ensure it remains a resource of hope for those in need should contact Michelle Lehman at (202) 429-5310 or nab@nab.org.
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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