OhioMHAS NewsNow | Governor DeWine Announces New Great Minds Workforce Incentive Program...Applications Open for SFY 25 Workforce Funding...Farm Stress Survey Results Released...Director Cornyn Discusses Suicide Prevention...Staff Visit Stark, Hancock Counties...Prevention Month Toolkit...NIMH Suicide Prevention Event Recording...SAMHSA Crisis Care Resources...Upcoming Trainings...In the News

Ohio Department of Behavioral Health sent this bulletin at 09/20/2024 12:30 PM EDT

Friday, September 20, 2024

Governor DeWine Announces “Great Minds” Workforce Incentive Program to Strengthen Pipeline of Behavioral Health Professionals

New graduates in behavioral health fields can apply for up to $20,000 in grant funding for committing to work at a Community Behavioral Health Center in Ohio

As part of Ohio’s ongoing efforts to recruit more professionals into the mental health care field, Governor Mike DeWine today announced a new workforce incentive program for college graduates who commit to working at one of Ohio’s Community Behavioral Health Centers (CBHCs) for at least one year.

Through the new Great Minds Fellowship Workforce Commitment Incentive Program, recent graduates can apply to potentially receive as much as $20,000 in grant funding if they commit to working at a CBHC in Ohio for at least one year of full-time employment. The amount of funding per successful applicant is subject to availability. Funds can be used to help graduates cover costs related to their education.

The new Workforce Commitment Incentive Program will now make Great Minds Fellowship funding accessible to recent college graduates. Previously, Great Minds Fellowship grants were only available to active college students.

To qualify for the new Workforce Commitment Incentive Program, applicants must have graduated or received certification in or after May 2023 from one of the following types of academic programs: mental health counseling, psychiatric and mental health nursing, substance abuse/addiction counseling, social work, or marriage and family counseling. Applicants also must be employed or have an offer of employment for a clinical position at an eligible CBHC with a start date no later than January 6, 2025.

A list of eligible CBHCs, full eligibility requirements, and other frequently asked questions are available now at https://highered.ohio.gov/GreatMindsWCIP.

Applications will be available on the program webpage beginning Oct. 1, and the application period will close on Nov. 15.

Workforce Commitment Incentive Program Webpage

The Great Minds Fellowship is led by the Ohio Department of Higher Education (ODHE) with support from the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS). Created by Governor DeWine with the support of the Ohio General Assembly, the aim of the initiative is to incentivize college students to pursue careers in behavioral health fields like social work, therapy, counseling, and psychiatric and mental health nursing. The new Workforce Commitment Incentive Program expands on this important work.

The new Great Minds Fellowship Workforce Commitment Incentive Program is part of Ohio’s multi-pronged approach to recruit and retain behavioral health professionals. Click here to read more about other similar initiatives currently underway in Ohio.

Applications Now Being Accepted for SFY 2025 Welcome Back Campaign, Great Minds Internship Site Support Funding

The OhioMHAS Bureau of Workforce Sustainability is now accepting applications for SFY 2025 funding through the Welcome Back Campaign and the Great Minds Fellowship Internship Site Support program.

Check out this webinar and new guidance documents, available on the OhioMHAS funding page, for helpful assistance with the application process. The deadline to submit applications is Dec. 31, 2024. Questions? Please contact the workforce email box at: workforce@mha.ohio.gov.

Ohio Agricultural Mental Health Alliance Releases Farm Stress Survey Results

The Ohio Agricultural Mental Health Alliance (OAMHA) this week released the results of a survey created to ensure Ohio’s farmers, families, and communities are better equipped to deal with stress. Anonymously, members of the farming community answered a series of questions related to mental health and agriculture that garnered information related to demographics, farm-related stressors, mental health and well-being, loneliness and social support, and knowledge of and access/barriers to mental health support services. More than 600 people accessed the survey, with 80 Ohio counties having at least one respondent.

Key highlights collected from the survey data show:

39 percent of respondents indicated their mental well-being is “very good or excellent.” Additionally, 38 percent of respondents indicated that their mental well-being was “good,” resulting in three out of every four respondents having a positive perception of their overall mental well-being.
23 percent of respondents had negative perceptions of their mental well-being.
10 percent of respondents were highly affected and reported that mental health conditions or emotional problems kept them from their work and usual activities 14 or more days of the past 30 days.
50 percent of respondents scored as likely to be experiencing loneliness, with nearly one in five stating that they often feel isolated from others.
44 percent of respondents stated that there was a time in the past 12 months when they felt they needed mental or emotional health care or counseling services. Of those, half stated that they did not get the services they needed, and nearly one-quarter stated they received some services, but felt they needed more or different services.

The Alliance is made up of state agencies and organizations focused on mental health in agriculture. Members include AgCredit, Farm Credit Mid-America, Ohio AgriBusiness Association, Ohio Corn & Wheat, Ohio Farm Bureau, Ohio Department of Agriculture, Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS), Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation, and The Ohio State University.

OhioMHAS and The Ohio State University analyzed the data to compile an executive summary report. Group members will then determine where resources are needed to help ensure support is available to communities in need.

“Farmers are the backbone of our economy and our communities, providing the food and commodities we all depend on, yet many in the agricultural community face unique challenges that can take a toll on their mental health and well-being," said OhioMHAS Director LeeAnne Cornyn. "The state of Ohio is dedicated to standing by our farmers - not just in times of crisis, but each and every day."

View Farm Stress Report

Director Cornyn Highlights Ohio's Suicide Prevention Efforts for DAS Perspectives Series

In recognition of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, OhioMHAS Director LeeAnne Cornyn was the featured speaker at the latest Perspectives Series event Sept. 18 hosted by Ohio Department of Administrative Services (DAS) Director Kathleen C. Madden.

Director Cornyn provided an overview of current suicide prevention and stigma-reduction initiatives and shared how the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline is saving lives. She also responded to audience questions. Director Madden, meanwhile, reminded state employees about the Ohio Employee Assistance Program, which provides confidential, 24/7 access to speak immediately with a behavioral health clinician. Employees can receive counseling and crisis intervention services from licensed, master’s-level clinicians over the phone and even via chat at any hour of the day.

Watch Recording

OhioMHAS Staff Visit Hancock, Stark Counties

On Monday, Director Cornyn and OhioMHAS staff visited Stark County where they started their visit with a tour of the Coleman Crisis Center. During the visit, they had the opportunity to interact with a few staff members of the Crisis Center, including Claire who demonstrated her passion for helping individuals navigate crisis and behavioral health challenges. Claire’s compassion shined through as she talked about the hardships and experiences of her clients, recognizing that all people deserve dignity regardless of their behavioral health challenges.

After the tour, the group met with Stark County Mental Health and Addiction Recovery and learned more about PartnerSolutions, the social determinants of health impacting Stark County, and had the opportunity to meet with many local providers, foundations, nonprofits, and community leaders including CommQuest and Sisters of Charity Foundation.

On Sept. 11, Director Cornyn and staff visited with the Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services. During their time in Hancock County, the Director had the opportunity to meet with board members, local providers including Family Resource Center, OhioGuidestone, City Mission, Blanchard Valley Health System, and NAMI, as well as Judge Kristen Johnson, the Captain for the City of Findlay Police, and the Superintendent of Findlay City Schools. The visit was concluded with a tour of The Steady Path, a residential stabilization facility.

Substance Use Prevention Month Toolkit

October is Substance Use Prevention Month. This year's theme is "Telling the Prevention Story." To help communities and organizations spread the word, the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released a toolkit with social media shareables, web graphics, flyers, virtual backgrounds, email signatures, and more. Join the conversation online using the hashtags: #SubstanceUsePreventionMonth, #PreventionMonth, and #MyPreventionStory.

Download Toolkit

NIMH Livestream Event Recording: Suicide Prevention in Health Care Settings

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month, the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH) and the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) hosted a livestream event on suicide prevention in health care settings on Sept. 11.

Suicide is a major cause of death in the U.S., and many people at risk of suicide don’t get the mental health care they need. In many cases, people see a health care provider in the weeks or months before a suicide attempt, making medical settings like emergency rooms and doctor’s offices key points for prevention and intervention.

The event covered:

Research supported by NIMH and SAMHSA on improving how we screen for and assess suicide risk and intervene in health care settings.
How to apply this research in clinical practice.
Ways to seek help for yourself or others.

Watch Recording

SAMHSA Releases Compendium on Strategies for Accessible and Effective Crisis Care

The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) has released a new compendium, titled Connected and Strong: Strategies for Accessible and Effective Crisis and Mental Health Services, which reflects the current best thinking toward advancing SAMHSA’s vision of crisis care that is available 24/7 and responsive to wherever the person in crisis is located. Comprised of 10 papers, authored by subject matter experts, this compendium builds upon the core principles of the SAMHSA National Guidelines for Behavioral Health Crisis Care and the Youth Crisis Guidelines.

Learn More

Sources of Strength Elementary Coaches Training — Sept. 23-24

This week is your last chance to register for the Sources of Strength (Sources) Elementary Coaches training, scheduled for Sept. 23-24. This virtual, two-day training is available at no cost and is geared to adults who will be implementing the Sources of Strength elementary program (grades K-6).

Sources virtual trainings, as well as specified implementation costs, are covered by Sources of Strength Ohio through support from OhioMHAS. To learn more, check out the training registration page.

Register

Adult Low-Risk Drinking ECHO Launches Sept. 25

The Ohio Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Prevention and Promotion invites those working in vaping prevention to participate in the Adult Low-Risk Drinking ECHO. Hear from experts in the field and learn how other Ohio communities are working to promote low-risk drinking among adults. Sessions are interactive and are a great place to share your successes or “workshop” your ideas with subject matter experts and colleagues. Continuing Education credits for Prevention, Social Work, Health Education, Nursing and Psychology will be available.

Learn More and Register

Virtual Recovery Month Event | Addiction Ultimatum: Jail, Death, Recovery — A Story of Addiction & Hope — Sept. 25

In recognition of September as Recovery Month, BrightView will present Addiction Ultimatum: Jail, Death, Recovery — A Story of Addiction & Hope, a poignant documentary that reminds viewers that while addiction can take hold of someone in an instant, the journey to recovery is far longer and more challenging. Make plans to join BrightView on Sept. 25 from noon-1:00 p.m. for this virtual forum where staff will screen this documentary exploring a patient’s three options when they have a substance use disorder: jail, death, or recovery. After the documentary, BrightView will host a Q&A discussion with some of the individuals involved in this project. Click HERE to watch a preview. Questions? Email info@brightviewhealth.com.

Register

Save A Life Day (Franklin County) — Sept. 26

Lighthouse Behavioral Health Solutions, Franklin County Public Health, Columbus Public Health, and Community Medical Services are teaming up for Save A Life Day to give out free naloxone, hygiene products, food, and resources on Sept. 26 from 11:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. at 106 N Murray Hill Road, Columbus, 43228.

View Flyer

Recovery Needs of African Immigrants/Refugees — Sept. 27

Global Health Education and Development (GHEAD) and SomaliCAN will host a virtual Recovery Month Cultural Competence Training for Health Care Providers: Understand the Recovery Needs of African Immigrants/Refugees on Sept. 27 from noon-1:30 p.m. This training is designed to help health care professionals enhance their understanding of diverse cultures and improve patient care.

Register

HUSH Documentary Screening — Sept. 28

Ark Builders, in partnership with NAMI Franklin County and OhioMHAS, will host an encore screening of the groundbreaking documentary HUSH, which examines mental health and the Black community, on Saturday, Sept. 28 at 10:00 a.m. at the First Church of God, 3380 Refugee Road, Columbus. The screening will be followed by a panel discussion featuring producer and filmmaker Antwon Lindsey.

Register

Emerging Trends Summit — Oct. 1

Prevention Action Alliance will host the Emerging Trends Summit: Advancing Vaping, Cannabis, and Tobacco Prevention on Oct. 1 from 9:00 a.m.-4:00 p.m. at the Quest Conference Center in Westerville. Gain insights into the profound impact of these substances on our communities and explore strategies to proactively prevent and reduce their prevalence. Cost is $50 and includes morning refreshments, lunch, and CEUs.

Register

Unveiling Problem Gambling Disorder Among Asian Americans — Oct. 4

The Ohio State University College of Social Work will present an Unveiling Problem Gambling Disorder Among Asian Americans webinar on Oct. 4 from 11:00 a.m.-1:00 p.m. The session will be led by by Janet Thode, MA, OCPS & Abdullah Mahmood, LSW, LCDC III-GAMB, OCPS. Delving into the complexities of problem gambling within the Asian American community, this session will offer a comprehensive understanding of the challenges faced by Asian Americans and will highlight effective approaches to prevention and intervention. The presenters will explore cultural influences, socioeconomic factors and stigma surrounding mental health, all contributing to the prevalence of this issue. Cost is $35. Questions? Email cswce@osu.edu or call 614.292.3032.

Register

Mobilize Recovery Bus Visiting Xenia, Dayton — Oct. 4-5

The Mobilize Recovery Across America 2024 Bus Tour is coming to Xenia on Oct. 4 and Dayton on Oct. 5. Click the links for complete event details and to register. These events are organized locally in partnership with Emerge Recovery and Trade Initiative, Ohio Center of Excellence for Behavioral Health Prevention and Promotion, Hope Recovery Community, RAMCO, and The Hope Spot. This national bus tour receives cornerstone support from iHeartMedia, Meta, the Opioid Response Network, and SAMHSA.

Carnie Wilson to Speak at Pearls of Wisdom Gala — Oct. 24

Riveon Mental Health and Recovery (formerly The LCADA Way and Nord Center) announced that renowned singer, actress, and TV host Carnie Wilson will provide keynote remarks at the organization's annual Pearls of Wisdom Gala slated for Oct. 24 from 5:30-10:00 p.m. at the Embassy Suites Cleveland–Rockside in Independence. Cost is $150 per person; semi-formal attire is required.

Learn More

Ecotherapy in Clinical Practice: Four-Part Virtual Seminar Series

Hopewell and Pasadena Villa have announced a four-part, virtual, Ecotherapy in Clinical Practice series. Sessions will be held 9:00 a.m.-noon on Sept. 20, Oct. 18, Nov. 15, and Dec. 20. Up to 10 CEUs will be awarded for the entire series.

Register

ORH Seeking Workshop Proposals for 2025 Annual Conference

Ohio Recovery Housing (ORH) is seeking proposals for its 2025 Annual Conference, Building a Legacy of Hope: Connecting Lives, Collaborating for Change. The conference will take place March 25-27 at the Embassy Suites by Hilton Columbus–Dublin. ORH welcomes all proposals, but is particularly interested in interactive sessions where participants will walk away with specific skills and information they can apply in their daily work. The audience consists of recovery housing operators, peer supporters, social workers, chemical dependency counselors, advocates, and representatives from state and local governments. The deadline to submit a workshop proposal is Oct. 31.

Submit Proposal