Behavioral Health Journalism Excellence Competition

Sponsored by: Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities

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This competition is designed to recognize middle school or high school journalists in Georgia who excel in reporting on behavioral health issues, with a focus on increasing awareness and competency, reducing stigma, and increasing the volume of high-quality, accurate, and sensitive media coverage. Entries should demonstrate a deep understanding of behavioral health, avoid stigmatizing or stereotyping language, and include the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) 988 end card.

Criteria:

  • Relevance and Awareness: Entries must increase awareness of the 9-8-8 dialing code and behavioral health issues within Georgia. Articles should educate the audience on the importance and role of behavioral health services in their community.

  • Journalistic Quality and Competency: Submissions should reflect high journalistic standards, including accuracy, objectivity, and in-depth reporting. They should equip the audience with a thorough understanding of the topic, showcasing the journalist's competency in covering complex issues.

  • Innovative and Sensitive Reporting: Entries must present behavioral health topics in innovative ways, using various media platforms. Reporting should be sensitive, avoiding stereotypes or stigmatizing language, and demonstrate a nuanced understanding of behavioral health.

  • Engagement and Impact: Submissions should aim to significantly increase the number of effectively crafted and accurate behavioral health news stories in Georgia. Impact can be demonstrated through audience engagement metrics, follow-up stories, or community feedback.

  • Inclusion of SAMHSA 988 End Card: All entries must include the SAMHSA 988 end card for media stories covering behavioral health topics, emphasizing the commitment to accurate and responsible reporting.

Submission Guidelines:

  • Two articles by the same author or co-authors published between Aug. 1, 2024, and Jan. 31, 2025, in a student media publication. Enter here by Feb. 1, 2025. Open to GSPA members at middle schools or high schools in Georgia.

  • Entry must include a brief (250 words or less) description of how the work contributes to the competition's goals.

Judging Process:

Entries will be evaluated by a panel of experts in journalism, behavioral health, and representatives from the Georgia Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. The judging panel will assess submissions based on the criteria above, with particular emphasis on sensitivity, innovation, and impact. The decision of the judges will be final.

Awards:

The top entries will be recognized and celebrated for their contribution to improving behavioral health awareness and journalism quality in Georgia. Monetary prizes have been designated as follows: 1st place - $750, 2nd place -$500, 3rd place $250, and will be awarded based on the number of qualified and deserving entries as deemed by the judging panel. Winners also receive certificates and have the opportunity to participate in workshops or mentorship programs to further their skills in health journalism. Winners will be formally recognized during GSPA’s Spring Workshop and Awards March 24, 2025, at the UGA Georgia Center in Athens.