Shine and spunout partner on new Youth Mental Health Media Award for 2026

Shine and spunout have announced a new partnership to introduce a Youth Mental Health Media Award as part of the 2026 Mental Health Media Awards, recognising outstanding journalism and content creation that supports, informs and engages young people on mental health.

The new award is one of 12 categories open for entry this year and reflects the growing importance of accessible, youth-centered mental health content across Irish media and digital platforms. All 12 categories can be viewed at www.shine.ie/awards.  

Submissions for the 2026 Mental Health Media Awards open on 20 August, with entries invited from journalists, broadcasters, podcasters, content creators and digital media producers across Ireland.

The Youth Mental Health Media Award will celebrate content that helps young audiences better understand mental health, amplifies young people's experiences, and contributes to informed public conversation on issues affecting their wellbeing.

Established by Shine, the Mental Health Media Awards, recognise excellence in reporting and storytelling on mental health while encouraging responsible, accurate and impactful coverage. Since their inception, the awards have highlighted the important role media can play in reducing stigma, increasing understanding and ensuring that people experiencing mental health challenges see their experiences reflected in Irish media.

Nicola Byrne, CEO of Shine, said:

"Young people are navigating increasingly complex challenges in a rapidly changing media environment. The content they encounter through journalism, podcasts, video platforms and social media can shape understanding, influence help-seeking and affect how mental health and mental illness are discussed among peers, families and communities."

Sinéad Keane, CEO of spunout, said:

"Young people deserve mental health content that is relevant, trustworthy and reflective of their lived experiences. Through this partnership, we want to celebrate the creators and media professionals who are helping young people to understand mental health, access reliable information and feel less alone. We encourage anyone producing impactful youth-focused content to consider entering."

Media professionals and content creators are encouraged to submit work that demonstrates excellence in youth-focused mental health reporting, storytelling, education or public engagement.

Further information on entry criteria and award categories are available on www.shine.ie/awards.