May 20, 2026
During Mental Health Awareness Month in May and year-round, local TV and radio stations provide Americans' most trusted news and community resources. Across the country, broadcasters are helping break stigma, encourage meaningful conversations and connect audiences with support and wellness resources. From highlighting local experts to sharing inspiring personal stories, broadcasters continue demonstrating the powerfully local service they provide to their communities.
Capitol Broadcasting's WRAL in Raleigh, N.C., featured local mental health experts discussing the importance of emotional wellness and practical strategies for managing stress and anxiety during Mental Health Awareness Month. The coverage emphasized the importance of seeking help early and making mental health conversations part of everyday life.
iHeartMedia announced the launch of "Body By Jake Radio," a 24-hour wellness-focused channel hosted by fitness expert Jake Steinfeld, as part of Mental Health Awareness Month. The programming focuses on physical and mental wellness, motivation and healthy living, encouraging listeners to prioritize both emotional and physical health.
Nexstar Media Group's WHO 13 in Des Moines, Iowa, focused on breaking the stigma surrounding mental health through conversations with local advocates and healthcare providers. The station's reporting emphasized the importance of accessible support systems and encouraged viewers to speak openly about mental wellness and seek help when needed, including highlighting the 988 line. "I think it's important for people, to understand that, you know, we all struggle," social worker Joe Nemmers said. "There's no shame in reaching out for help. It's not a sign of weakness, it's a sign of self-care and of self-assessment."
TEGNA-owned News 19 in Columbia, S.C., featured a local barbershop using conversations between barbers and customers to promote mental health awareness in the community. The story highlighted how trusted local gathering spaces can help normalize conversations around emotional wellness and provide support, particularly for men who may hesitate to seek help. "It's dialogue. We don't talk about it enough because everybody's scared of mental health," shop owner Darrell Goodwin told the station.
CBS News Minnesota, part of the CBS owned-and-operated station group, shared the story of a Minnesota nonprofit using horse therapy to support senior mental health. The segment highlighted how interactions with horses can help reduce isolation, anxiety and depression among older adults while fostering connection and emotional healing, and provide an example of the unique programs broadcasters are spotlighting across the country.
FOX Television Stations' owned-and-operated Fox 54 in Augusta, Ga., spotlighted a local Pilates studio encouraging people to use movement and exercise to support mental wellness. The segment explored how physical activity can help reduce stress, improve mood and support overall mental health during Mental Health Awareness Month.
More than 2.46 million American jobs depend on broadcasting. The local broadcast television and radio industry and the businesses that depend on it generate $1.19 trillion annually for the nation's economy.
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