Ohio Governor Mike DeWine has designated May as Mental Health Awareness Month. This initiative aims to raise awareness and encourage conversations about mental health across the state.
One in five Ohioans faces mental health challenges, as highlighted by Tia Marcel Moretti, the Director of the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health. She emphasizes the importance of breaking the stigma and fostering understanding in our communities. Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder to support friends and family who may be struggling.
To assist in this effort, the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health and RecoveryOhio have launched a free digital toolkit. This toolkit provides families and communities with resources to initiate dialogues about mental health and access help when needed.
The toolkit offers:
- Downloadable resources for awareness
- Social media graphics and sample posts
- Mental health tips and resources
- Videos aimed at reducing stigma
- A sample newsletter article
- A proclamation from Gov. DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel
A critical part of this initiative includes access to the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. This service offers free, confidential support 24/7, with Ohio call centers receiving over 836,000 contacts since the call line’s launch in July 2022.
Additionally, RecoveryOhio has introduced the Pledge to End Stigma program. Residents who take this pledge can share a badge on social media and receive a printable certificate to raise awareness.
For further support, the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health provides the DBH Bridge Line, where experienced team members assist individuals seeking behavioral health resources. Callers can reach them at 1-866-466-7228, available Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Recent statistics show that mental health challenges have risen significantly, especially among young adults. A study from the National Institute of Mental Health revealed that between 2019 and 2021, anxiety rates among teenagers surged by over 25%. Understanding these trends highlights the urgent need for resources and open conversations about mental health in our communities.
It’s essential for everyone to feel supported and informed. Let’s make mental health a priority this month and beyond.
