The number of suicide deaths in Ohio declined for the first time in three years in 2023, decreasing about 1% from 2022’s numbers, according to the 2023 Ohio Suicide Report released Thursday by the Ohio Department of Health (ODH).

Ohio deaths by suicides dropped to 1,777 in 2023 – 20 fewer than 2022. Ohio’s decrease compares favorably to national numbers. Across the country, suicide rates declined by less than 1% last year. In 2023, suicide remained the second-leading cause of death among Ohioans ages 10-14 and 20-34 and was the 12th-leading cause of death overall. On average, nearly five Ohioans died by suicide per day, including one individual age 10-24 every 36 hours.

Ohio’s reduction in suicide deaths comes amid the state’s increased emphasis on mental health. Under the leadership of Governor Mike DeWine, Ohio has launched a series of initiatives to improve mental health and serve as a lifeline to people in crisis or experiencing thoughts of suicide.

“Ohio has become a national leader in addressing the mental health crisis, and this latest report indicates welcome progress,” said Governor DeWine. “But while this decrease in suicide deaths is certainly a step in the right direction, we must continue to make improvements in suicide prevention and mental health. Depression and suicide remain a serious threat – especially to our kids. If anything, our progress should inspire us to further advance our commitment to this life-saving work, because the life of every Ohioan is precious.”

Click HERE to watch the press conference, featuring Ohio Department of Health Director Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff and Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) Director Leeanne Cornyn.  

Ohio Citizen Advocates for Addiction Recovery (OCAAR) this week has unveiled a new logo, a redesigned website, and revamped social media presence. "We’ve reimagined everything, starting from scratch to build something extraordinary. Explore our new look and website — a reflection of our commitment to being an essential resource for recovery in Ohio," the organization said in an announcement. Visit https://www.ocaar.org/ for more information. 

Registration is open for the Ohio Recovery Housing annual conference, “Building a Legacy of Hope: Connecting Lives, Collaborating for Change,”.  Recovery Housing operators that are certified or have applied for certification are eligible to register for a low rate of $250 (a $150 savings!) by Jan. 31. Email stacy@ohiorecoveryhousing.org for your discount code. Registration rates increase Feb. 1, so be sure to register today.  Click HERE to view the agenda, HERE for sponsorship opportunities and HERE to register. 

ORH is also hosting the following trainings. Click the links to register.

Two-Day Certification Trainings Available:
These trainings walk operators through the certification application process and review how to use and manage the RHOADS online application system. Trainings are currently scheduled in Dayton (Jan. 29-30) and Columbus (Feb 4-5).  

RHOADS Trainings:
These free webinars are designed to assist operators in using RHOADS, ORH's online application system for certification. 

Feb.13 (10:00 a.m.) Navigating RHOADS: Training for Recovery Housing operators seeking to apply for Certification – This training is for anyone who wants to learn more about how to apply for certification using RHOADS. ORH will discuss how to register, how to complete an application, and answer common questions about how to input information. 

Feb. 18 (1:30 p.m.) Navigating Certification Recommendations within RHOADS – This training focuses on the new process for responding to requests for quality improvement from ORH within the RHOADS system. The training will cover how to view recommendations, upload responses, and how to ensure that responses are complete. 

Thrive Peer Recovery Services has announced two upcoming training opportunities for those interested in advancing their careers in peer recovery support:

1. Thrive’s Internship Program — Feb. 24-April 18
2. State-Required PRS Training (CCAR) — March 11-12, March 18-19

Both programs are designed to equip individuals with the skills and experience necessary to become a Certified Peer Recovery Supporter (PRS). These opportunities are open to individuals with lived experience who are committed to making a difference in their communities. Click HERE for complete details and to apply. 

Star Behavioral Health Providers has announced two upcoming Tier 1: Introduction to Military Culture and Deployment training opportunities. Click the links for more information and to register. 

Feb. 20 (virtual) | View Flyer | Register 
March 11 (Chillicothe) | View Flyer | Register

Ohio Emergency Medical Services for Children Statewide Partnership will host a Not Your Parent's THC. Current Cannabis Products and Toxicity in Pediatric Patients lecture on Feb. 13 from 1:00-2:00 p.m. Dr. Alek Adkins from The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center and Nationwide Children's Hospital will will discuss cannabinoid intoxication in pediatric patients. The meeting will be recorded and available on the Ohio EMSC PECC website for later viewing.