Ohio's Launching a Decade-Long Study on Behavioral Health

It's a tough world out there and mental illness is a problem the whole nation struggles with. ☹️ Drug abuse and mental health issues don't just impact individuals. This epidemic touches families, friends, and local communities. 🫂

Ohio is planning a new study to uncover the root causes of mental illness, substance abuse, and suicide. Let's dive into the details. ⬇️

 

Here’s Five Fast Facts on the new study:

  1. 🕊️ Soaring to Solutions - Governor Mike DeWine recently announced a $20 million grant will go to the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services. The money will go towards the new State of Ohio Action for the Resiliency (SOAR) study. 
  1. 📈 For the Long Haul - The study will span at least a decade and analyze generations of Ohio families that are impacted by mental illness and substance abuse disorders, DeWine said. Ohio's two-year operating budget will continue to fund the project.
  1. 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The Fine Print - Researchers will study up to 15,000 people across Ohio’s 88 counties. An associated brain health study will research 3,600 families in the Buckeye State, which will focus on biological, psychological, and social factors that help people handle mental health challenges.
  1. 🩺 Doctor in the House - The SOAR study will be led by Ohio State University and Dr. Luan Phan, chair of the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Health at the Ohio State University College of Medicine.
  1. 💔 Sobering Stats - Since 2010, opioid overdose deaths in Ohio have increased by over 300%. Between 2020 and 2021, suicide deaths in Ohio increased by 8%.

🔥Bottom line: This study is a great step forward in helping Ohio curb the negative effects of the state's mental health crisis. Hopefully, the researchers will uncover ways to help keep citizens happy and healthy. Another problem related to mental health is the cost of recovery and related services. Check out these eye-popping stats on the cost of healthcare.

How do you keep your mental health in tip top shape?

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