ANNAPOLIS, Md. — Young Maryland artists are invited to submit their work to the Children’s Mental Health Matters 2026 poster contest. The deadline is Feb. 6, and only one entry is allowed per person.
According to their website, Children’s Mental Health Matters is a statewide campaign that brings together nonprofits, schools and other agencies with the following goals: raising public awareness of the importance of children’s mental health and substance use, reducing stigma of mental health, and connecting children and families with resources for prevention and support of mental health conditions.
The posters with the winning design will be placed all over the state through partners to encourage kids to get help.
This year’s theme is “No Judgement, Just Help.” On the website, organizers wrote that this was more than a theme. It’s also the mission of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, a critical resource that ensures no Marylander faces mental health challenges alone.
“We’re asking Maryland students to create original artwork that encourages openness, challenges stigma, and inspires others to seek help when they need it,” the post reads.
Artwork should capture attention through vibrant visuals and encourage openness and acceptance around mental health while inspiring others to challenge the stigma.
All art must also meet the following guidelines:
- Square formatting, 14” x 14” preferred
- Background should be filled in and empty space kept to a minimum
- Two-dimensional artwork only
- Completed consent form must be included for each submitted piece of artwork
And while only one submission per person is allowed, collaborations are welcome.
You can submit your work or learn more online.
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