From OHIO DEPARTMENT OF BEHAVIORAL HEALTH
Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine has declared May to be Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM). In support of this mission, the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) and RecoveryOhio have partnered to release a free digital toolkit to help families and communities start conversations about mental health and find help when it’s needed most.
“We’re all affected by mental health, and with one in five Ohioans living with a mental illness, it’s more important than ever for us to dismantle the stigmas surrounding mental health and foster understanding,” said DBH Director Tia Marcel Moretti.
“Mental Health Awareness Month is the perfect opportunity to shine a spotlight on mental health and share ways we can support our friends, neighbors, and loved ones who are struggling and need help,” she added.
“RecoveryOhio is proud to partner with the Department of Behavioral Health to make sure Ohioans have the tools they need to start these important conversations,” said RecoveryOhio Director Erin Reed.
“This toolkit is more than awareness – it’s a direct pathway to help. Whether someone is looking for resources for themselves or a loved one, we want to make sure they know where to turn. Between this toolkit, the 988 Lifeline for crises, and the many treatment providers across our state, Ohioans now have multiple ways to access the support they need,” Reed said.
The MHAM toolkit includes:
- Downloadable digital resources to promote awareness
- Social media shareable graphics and sample posts
- Mental health tips and get-help resources
- Stigma-busting videos
- Sample newsletter article
- Proclamation from Gov. DeWine and Lt. Gov. Jim Tressel
The toolkit also includes information on the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Ohioans who are experiencing a mental health or addiction crisis should call, text, or chat 988 to reach a trained specialist who can offer free, confidential help 24/7/365.
Since launching in July 2022, Ohio’s 988 call centers have responded to more than 836,000 contacts and are currently averaging nearly 15,500 calls, texts, and chats each month.
Also included in the resources is RecoveryOhio’s Pledge to End Stigma. Ohioans who take the pledge will earn a badge they can share on social media, as well as receive a printable certificate.
The kit also features Ohio’s suicide prevention toolkit, information on how businesses can support the Ohio Recovery Friendly Workplace initiative, and guidance on how families can access Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) for youth and young adults under age 20.
Click here to download the toolkit.
Additional help resources:
- The DBH Bridge Line helps callers seeking behavioral health resources in the community.
- Bridge Line team members are people with lived experience who strive to support those seeking recovery support in their communities.
- To be connected with non-crisis behavioral health resources in the community, call 466-7228.
- The Bridge Line is available Mondays – Fridays, between 8 a.m. – 5 p.m., except for state holidays. All calls and messages will be returned within one business day.
- To find information on treatment providers and supports visit the “Get Help Now” tab on the DBH website.
