Ohio Orange Brigade

09/30/2024

As we close Su***de Prevention Awareness Month, let's reflect on what we've learned and commit to ongoing action. Remember: every day is an opportunity to make a difference.

What We've Accomplished:
Raised awareness about su***de prevention
Shared vital resources and information
Encouraged open conversations about mental health
Reduced stigma through education and empathy

But Our Work Isn't Over. Here's How We Continue:

Keep the Conversation Going
• Regularly check in with loved ones about their mental health
• Share your own experiences to normalize mental health discussions
• Use social media to spread awareness year-round

Education is Ongoing
• Stay informed about the latest in mental health research and resources
• Attend workshops or webinars on mental health first aid
• Share what you learn with your community

Be an Advocate
• Support policies that improve mental health care access
• Encourage mental health programs in schools and workplaces
• Speak up against stigma and misinformation

Practice Compassionate Action
• Learn and recognize warning signs of su***de
• Reach out to those who may be struggling
• Offer support without judgment

Prioritize Your Own Mental Health
• Practice self-care regularly
• Seek help when you need it
• Model healthy coping strategies for others

Support Prevention Organizations
• Volunteer with local mental health organizations
• Donate to su***de prevention research and programs
• Participate in awareness events throughout the year

Know and Share Resources
• Keep crisis hotline numbers readily available
• Familiarize yourself with local mental health services
• Share these resources in your social and professional networks

Remember: Prevention is Possible
Every conversation, every act of kindness, every shared resource contributes to a world where su***de is preventable. Your actions matter, today and every day.
Together, we can create a society where:

Mental health is prioritized
Help-seeking is encouraged and accessible
No one feels alone in their struggles
Hope and support are always within reach

Let's carry the spirit of this month forward. By continuing these efforts year-round, we move closer to a world where every life is valued, supported, and protected.
National Su***de Prevention Lifeline: 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

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09/29/2024

As Su***de Prevention Awareness Month comes to a close, let's remember our efforts to save lives don't end here. Su***de prevention is a year-round commitment that requires ongoing awareness, compassion, and action.

Why It Matters Every Day:
Mental health challenges don't follow a calendar
Crises can happen at any time
Consistent support and awareness can prevent emergencies

How to Make a Difference Year-Round:
Stay Educated
• Keep learning about warning signs and risk factors
• Follow reputable mental health organizations for updates
• Attend workshops or webinars on mental health first aid

Maintain Open Communication
• Regularly check in with loved ones
• Create safe spaces for honest conversations
• Normalize discussions about mental health

Practice Active Listening
• Give your full attention when someone shares their struggles
• Validate their feelings without judgment
• Ask open-ended questions to understand better

Promote Mental Health in Your Community
• Advocate for mental health resources in schools and workplaces
• Support local mental health initiatives and organizations
• Share information and resources on your social media

Take Care of Your Own Mental Health
• Practice self-care regularly
• Seek help when you need it
• Model healthy coping strategies for others

Know the Resources
• Keep crisis hotline numbers saved in your phone
• Familiarize yourself with local mental health services
• Share resources with others proactively

Remember: Every day, your awareness and compassion can make a life-saving difference. You don't need to be a mental health professional to help prevent su***de. Your genuine care and willingness to listen can be the light someone needs in their darkest moment.

Let's carry the spirit of Su***de Prevention Awareness Month into every day of the year. Together, we can create a world where su***de is preventable, and hope is always within reach.

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09/28/2024

Mental Health Workforce Development
Addressing mental health professional shortage is crucial for su***de prevention.

Current initiatives include:
H.R 4933 : The bill also allows the use of the loan repayment assistance to repay any loan incurred to obtain a post-graduate degree in a mental health or related field.

H.R.2438: Aims to streamline licensure processes for out-of-state mental health professionals

Expanding training programs for peer support specialists

https://www.congress.gov/bill/118th-congress/house-bill/2438?q=%7B%22search%22%3A%22hr+2438%22%7D&s=4&r=1

How you can help: Contact your state representatives to express support for these bills.
Find your representatives: https://www.congress.gov/members/find-your-member

09/27/2024

H.R.5633, the Veteran Su***de Prevention Act, is a crucial piece of legislation aimed at addressing the mental health crisis among our nation's veterans. Here's what you need to know:

Key Provisions:
1️⃣ Comprehensive Study
• Mandates a study on veteran su***de by the VA
• Examines su***des in the past 5 years
• Analyzes risk factors specific to veterans
2️⃣ Data Collection
• Requires gathering detailed information on each case
• Includes service history, VA benefit usage, and health records
• Aims to identify patterns and risk factors
3️⃣ Mental Health Treatment Analysis
• Examines the type and frequency of mental health treatment received
• Assesses the effectiveness of VA mental health programs
4️⃣ Prescription Drug Review
• Investigates the role of prescription medications in veteran su***des
• Focuses on opioids and psychotropic drugs
5️⃣ Reporting Requirements
• Mandates the VA to report findings to Congress
• Ensures transparency and accountability

Why It Matters:
Veterans face unique mental health challenges
Su***de rates among veterans remain alarmingly high
Data-driven approaches can lead to more effective prevention strategies

Current Status:
Introduced in the House of Representatives
Bipartisan support
Awaiting committee review

How You Can Help:
Learn about veteran mental health issues
Support veteran-focused mental health organizations
Contact your representatives to express support for the bill

Remember: If you're a veteran in crisis or concerned about one, contact the Veterans Crisis Line at 988 (then press 1), or text 838255.
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Summary of H.R.5633 - 118th Congress (2023-2024): Veteran Su***de Prevention Act

09/26/2024

Governor Mike DeWine has announced Ohio's new Su***de Prevention Plan for 2024-2026, reinforcing the state's commitment to saving lives and supporting those affected by su***de.

Key highlights of the plan:
1️⃣ Statewide Life-Saving Strategies
• Raising public awareness
• Enhancing access to timely data
• Expanding healthcare access
• Supporting families coping with loss
2️⃣ Collaborative Approach
• Partnering with 30+ private and public organizations
• Engaging healthcare providers, employers, schools, and communities
3️⃣ Addressing Urgent Needs
• Responding to an 8% increase in Ohio su***des from 2020 to 2021
• Aligning with national efforts to combat rising su***de rates
4️⃣ Leadership and Expertise
• Developed by RecoveryOhio and Ohio Su***de Prevention Foundation
• Focused on destigmatizing mental health challenges
5️⃣ Comprehensive Care
• Creating a system to help those struggling with mental illness
• Directing state prevention and education efforts

Remember: Su***de prevention is a health issue we can all participate in. Your awareness and support can make a difference.
Need help? Call 988 for immediate support.
Learn more about the plan:https://dam.assets.ohio.gov/image/upload/recoveryohio.gov/Su***de%20Prevention%20Plan%2024-26%20Final.pdf

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09/26/2024

Federal Policy: Mental Health Parity
The Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act requires health insurers to provide the same level of benefits for mental health and substance use treatment as they do for medical/surgical care.

Current efforts focus on:
Strengthening enforcement of parity laws
Expanding parity to include more types of health plans
Improving transparency in how insurers make coverage decisions
Impact: Better insurance coverage can make mental health care more accessible and affordable.

On July 25, 2023, the Departments of Labor and Health and Human Services released a proposed rule intended to strengthen enforcement of the 2008 Mental Health Parity and Addiction Equity Act (MHPAEA) and improve patients’ ability to access care for mental health and substance use disorders (MH/SUD...

09/25/2024

Did you know:

Ohio took steps to prevent youth su***de with HB 123 and became effective on March 24th, 2021 which:

Require annual su***de awareness and prevention training for school staff
Mandate parental notification if a child exhibits suicidal behavior
Establish a model su***de prevention policy for Ohio schools

Current status: Effective

Why it matters: Early intervention and education can significantly reduce youth su***de rates.

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Ohio's Comprehensive School Safety Framework outlines the importance of addressing emotional and physical safety of students and staff to create safe and supportive learning environments. 

09/24/2024

Ohio is taking significant steps to enhance its response to the crisis with House Bill 468. Let's break down this crucial legislation:

Key Points of HB 468:
988 Administrator
• Establishes a dedicated 988 Administrator within the Ohio Department of Mental

Health and Addiction Services
• Oversees the administration of the 988 Su***de and Crisis Lifeline in Ohio
• Ensures coordinated, efficient crisis response across the state

988 Fund
• Creates a dedicated 988 Fund in the State Treasury
• Receives and manages all dedicated funds for the 988 Lifeline
• Ensures sustainable funding for this vital service

Sponsored by Rep. Gail Pavliga
• Shows bipartisan support for mental health initiatives
• Demonstrates Ohio's commitment to su***de prevention and crisis intervention

Why This Matters:
Strengthens Ohio's crisis response infrastructure
Ensures dedicated oversight and funding for the 988 Lifeline
Improves access to immediate support for those in crisis
Aligns Ohio with national efforts to enhance crisis services

Potential Impact:
More efficient and effective crisis response
Increased capacity to handle crisis calls within the state
Better coordination between 988 and other emergency services
Potential for expanded services, such as mobile crisis teams

What You Can Do:
Save the 988 number in your phone
Share information about 988 with your community
Support local mental health initiatives
Advocate for continued funding and support for crisis services

Remember: The 988 Lifeline is available 24/7 for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress. Your call can save a life – maybe even your own.

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The online versions of legislation provided on this website are not official. Enrolled bills are the final version passed by the Ohio General Assembly and presented to the Governor for signature. The official version of acts signed by the Governor are available from the Secretary of State's Office a...

09/23/2024

In 2022, the U.S. transitioned to 988 as the new three-digit dialing code for the National Su***de Prevention Lifeline. This change aimed to improve access to crisis services.

Current policy efforts include:
Securing sustainable funding for 988 services
Expanding mobile crisis response teams
Integrating 988 with 911 emergency services
How it helps: Easier access to immediate support can save lives in crisis moments.

09/22/2024

Today, we begin a week of posts about su***de prevention policies. Remember, policy changes can have a significant impact on su***de prevention efforts, and you should always stay up-to-date and informed!

Did you know the U.S. has a national strategy for su***de prevention?

Learn more: https://www.hhs.gov/programs/prevention-and-wellness/mental-health-substance-abuse/national-strategy-su***de-prevention/index.html

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2024 National Strategy for Su***de Prevention

09/21/2024

"You are not alone. You are not alone. You are not alone."
These words are more than just a comforting phrase. They're a vital truth that can save lives. If you're struggling with thoughts of su***de or overwhelming despair, remember:

Your pain is real, but it's not forever.
• Emotions, even intense ones, are temporary.
• With support and time, healing is possible.

There are people who care deeply about you.
• Family, friends, colleagues, or professionals - support exists.
• Your absence would leave a hole in many lives.

Asking for help is a sign of strength, not weakness.
• It takes courage to reach out when you're hurting.
• Professionals are trained to help you navigate this pain.

Your story isn't over.
• You have inherent worth, regardless of your struggles.
• Your future self may thank you for holding on.

Connection is powerful.
• Talking to someone can provide relief and new perspectives.
• You don't have to bear this burden alone.

Resources available 24/7:
National Su***de Prevention Lifeline: 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741
Trevor Project (LGBTQ+ youth): 1-866-488-7386

Remember: Reaching out doesn't mean you're broken. It means you're human, and being human means sometimes needing support. That's okay, normal, and brave.
If you're not the one struggling but know someone who is, reach out to them. Your call, text, or visit could make all the difference.

You matter. Your life matters. And you are most definitely not alone.

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09/20/2024

Small changes in your daily routine can have a big impact on your mental wellbeing. Here's how exercise, nutrition, and sleep can boost your mental health:

🏃‍♀️ Exercise:
Releases endorphins, nature's mood boosters
Reduces stress and anxiety
Improves self-esteem and cognitive function
Tip: Aim for 30 minutes of moderate activity most days. Even a brisk walk counts!

🥗 Healthy Eating:
Provides nutrients crucial for brain health
Stabilizes mood and energy levels
Supports gut health, which is linked to mental wellbeing
Tip: Include omega-3 rich foods (like salmon and walnuts) and plenty of fruits and vegetables in your diet

😴 Good Sleep Habits:
Enhances emotional regulation and resilience
Improves concentration and decision-making
Helps process and consolidate memories
Tip: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep. Establish a consistent sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine

🧘‍♂️ Bonus: Stress Management
Practice mindfulness or meditation
Engage in hobbies you enjoy
Connect with supportive friends and family
Tip: Even 5 minutes of deep breathing can help reduce stress

Remember: These habits work best when combined. Start small - even minor changes can lead to significant improvements in mental health over time.
If you're struggling, don't hesitate to reach out for professional help. These habits support, but don't replace, proper mental health care.

National Su***de Prevention Lifeline: 988
Crisis Text Line: Text HOME to 741741

Your mental health matters. Take care of your mind as you would your body.
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