Mental Health Services

93% of people in Ohio’s six state psychiatric hospitals are there because they committed crimes, and need to be restored to mental competency so they can stand trial. Gov. Mike DeWine wants a group to look at this problem.

The House version of the state budget keeps funding for the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services above current levels, but eliminates an increase in funding put in by Gov. Mike DeWine.

Mental health advocates celebrated the launch of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, but some people voiced concerns that using the service could lead to police involvement or forced hospitalization.

The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has a new name and number. Now people can access help from the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline by calling 988. Today on Wellness Wednesday, we discuss how a name and number change could improve suicide prevention.

State officials estimate about 90,000 Ohioans call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline each year. But soon, Ohio and the rest of the country will transition to a new number that's shorter and easier to remember: 988.

The number of psychologists who reported receiving more referrals this year almost doubled from last year and nearly 7 in 10 psychologists reported that their waiting lists have grown longer since the start of the pandemic. We consider the shortages, the demand and possible solutions.

A rising number of patients and a shortage of staff in Ohio’s behavioral health system during the pandemic is leading to longer wait times for care.