Contest Overview
One post can shift a mood, start a movement, or change a life. This year’s campaign, Post Positive, invites middle school students to explore the power of social media and how it can be used to improve mental health and well-being among their peers.
Social media is one of the most influential tools in young people’s lives today. But when used in harmful ways, it can contribute to increased rates of anxiety, depression, loneliness, and low self-esteem. Constant comparisons, cyberbullying, pressure for likes, and exposure to negative content are just some of the challenges kids face in the digital world.
The Post Positive campaign challenges students to be part of the solution. Through research, brainstorming ideas, and leading with creativity, students are encouraged to develop short video PSAs (public service announcements) that raise awareness about the mental health impacts of social media and offer positive, empowering solutions.
Let’s Build a Culture of Kindness — One Post at a Time!
We will be selecting one winner in each of the following categories:
- Most Impactful: $2,000
- Most Creative and Original: $2,000
- Best Use of Messaging: $2,000
- Honorable Mention: $2,000
The Challenge
- Research how social media impacts teen mental health.
- Create a 60-second (or shorter) PSA video that includes a compelling message, a solution, and at least one research-based fact.
- Inspire others with a video that begins with a negative scenario and ends with a positive shift — one that shows how one post can truly make a difference.
Eligibility
The 2025-2026 “Post Positive” PSA Video Contest is only open to students who attend the following public middle schools in these Pennsylvania and New Jersey school districts: Pennsbury (Charles Boehm, Pennwood, William Penn); Council Rock (Holland, Newtown, Richboro), Neshaminy (Maple Point, Carl Sandbury, Poquessing), New Hope-Solebury (New Hope Solebury-Middle School); Hamilton Township (Crockett, Grice, Reynolds); Hopewell Valley Regional School District (Timberlane); Trenton (Grace A. Dunn, Dr. MLK Jr. Middle School, Arthur J. Holland Middle School); Ewing (Gilmore Fisher) and Lawrence Township (Lawrence Intermediate, Lawrence Middle School).
There is no limit to the number of submissions. Only one prize will be awarded per category and a submission can only win in one category. Schools can win in more than one category. Employees of Capital Health, as well as the immediate family (spouse, parents, siblings, children, step-children and grandchildren) and household members of Capital Health employees, are not eligible to enter the Contest.
Important Information
Contest runs from September 15, 2025 through March 27, 2026. For complete contest rules and FAQ, click here. Need some inspiration? Click here to watch the winning videos from our 2024-2025 "Wellness Warriors" PSA Video Contest.
For questions or additional information, please contact Rebecca Kelly, Director of Strategic Partnerships, at [email protected].
Sample Discussion and Research Prompts
Use these questions to brainstorm and help shape messaging:
- What are some ways social media can help, or hurt, mental health?
- What coping strategies do experts recommend for managing digital stress?
- What does the research say about screen time and its effects on mood or sleep?
- Why do likes, comments, and online validation feel so important?
- Have you ever seen a post that changed your mood, outlook, or sense of connection?
- If you could post one message that might help someone feel less alone, what would it be?
- How can storytelling and video inspire real change in how we use social media?
Tips for Video Production
- Consider the use of music, captions, or pacing to elevate your message
- Practice editing to ensure the final video fits within the time limit
- Use only original or royalty-free media
Final Checklist for Submission
✔ Strong, clear message that aligns with the Post Positive theme
✔ Accurate research incorporated with proper source citation
✔ Creative and practical solution presented
✔ Original and engaging storytelling
✔ Clear production quality: visuals, audio, editing
✔ All media used is royalty-free
✔ Free of spelling or grammar errors
✔ Video is 60 seconds or less
We want your video to shine a light on how one post, one kind word, one encouraging message, or one positive action can change everything. Let’s work together to make sure it changes things for the better!
A Message to Teachers and Parents
This challenge isn’t just about video production — it’s about giving students a challenge to encourage them to think critically, act compassionately, and come up with a positive call-to-action. It aligns with real-world SEL goals (social-emotional learning), media literacy, and digital awareness. It’s also a meaningful way to engage students who may not typically connect with traditional writing assignments but thrive when given a creative outlet.
Support from educators and families can be the key to helping a student find their voice. Encourage them to participate, talk with them about what they discover, and celebrate their efforts — even beyond the contest!