August 5, 2025
In recognition of September as National Suicide Prevention Month, local TV and radio stations are leading the mental health conversation in their communities. Broadcasters play an important role in connecting audiences with mental health resources, providing education on how to recognize warning signs and reporting on the implications of generative AI technology for mental health. This month, see how stations are working to raise suicide awareness and remind community members that they are never alone.
During the week of September 8, Audacy stations nationwide will air the I'm Listening broadcast special. The program encourages listeners to learn about mental wellness tools and to start the conversation in their communities. I'm Listening will feature in-depth conversations from mental health professionals and artists including Cynthia Erivo, Lewis Capaldi and Ne-Yo. In addition to bringing awareness to the issue, Audacy has also raised over $2 million in support of national and local mental health organizations.
Graham Media Group's WSLS in Roanoke, Va., is calling attention to Family Service of Roanoke Valley, a nonprofit providing mental health support services to the community. Speaking with Jamie Starkey, the organization's Chief Program Officer, WSLS reported on how to recognize warning signs in loved ones, what to do if you or someone you know is experiencing suicidal thoughts and how to talk to children and teens about mental health.
Cincinnati-based station WKRC, owned by Sinclair Broadcast Group, is placing a spotlight on a Northern Kentucky initiative to honor veterans who have died by suicide. A group of veterans gathered in Fort Thomas to plant 660 flags, representing the number of veterans who die by suicide each month. "Let your battle buddies find your purpose, but you do have a purpose when you come back," said Deb Winkler of KY Service Members, Veterans and Families Suicide Prevention Coalition. WKRC also highlighted Northkey, the regional partner for the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline.
This month, Nexstar Media Group's KTAL in Shreveport, La., is highlighting the dangers of using generative AI for mental health support. particularly for teens. The station aired a segment on the new OpenAI controls that give parents access to their children's ChatGPT data when signs of mental distress are present. The updated regulations follow a wrongful death lawsuit filed by parents who claim ChatGPT contributed to their 16-year-old son's suicide. KTAL advises parents to monitor their children's use of generative AI and provides resources for mental health support in the local community.
Hearst Television's NBC5 of Burlington, Vt., is encouraging viewers struggling with their mental health to seek professional help from community resources, rather than turning to generative AI. While responses from artificial intelligence can be unpredictable, the Center for Health and Learning hosts suicide prevention trainings to help people recognize and respond to warning signs in their loved ones. "Awareness saves lives," said Chris Allen, director of suicide prevention at the Vermont Department of Mental Health. "When we openly talk about suicide, we know that people are more likely to ask for help, and to offer help for others."
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