 2026 OACHC Annual Conference
The Ohio Association of Community Health Centers (OACHC) hosted its 2026 Annual Conference on April 21-22 in Columbus. In addition to engaging workshops and plenary sessions, the conference featured a Fireside Chat with Dr. Bruce Vanderhoff, Director of the Ohio Department of Health; Scott Partika, Director of the Ohio Department of Medicaid; and DBH Director Moretti. The session was moderated by OACHC Chief Executive Officer and President Julie DiRossi-King. The cabinet Directors shared insights on strengthening Ohio’s public health infrastructure, advancing Medicaid innovation, and the importance of partnership in expanding access to care and improving health outcomes for communities across the state. They also discussed workforce challenges and the role of Community Health Centers in advancing behavioral health access, integration, and outcomes. Click HERE to view the full conference agenda.
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Director Moretti Participates in D.C. Roundtable Focused on Health IT, Mental Health, and Substance Use Care
DBH Director Tia Marcel Moretti recently traveled to Washington, D.C., where she participated in Technology's Role in Making America Healthy Again: A Discussion on Mental Health and Substance Use Care — a series of roundtable discussions with other leaders in government, health care, technology, and Americans with lived experience. The all-day event, hosted by the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and the Office of the National Coordinator for Health Information Technology (ONC), explored the role of health information technology in improving mental health treatment and fighting the disease of addiction. Panelists discussed the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services' committment to harnessing technology and partnerships to transform behavioral health and whole-person care throughout the nation.
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New Funding Opportunity
Reducing Problem Gambling Harm on College Campuses
The Ohio Department of Behavioral Health, Office of Community and Family Resiliency, is pleased to announce a new funding opportunity to support a statewide initiative to reduce problem gambling harm among college students. This project will fund one Institution of Higher Education (IHE) that will partner with other colleges and universities and community organizations to expand prevention, early intervention, and campus capacity to address gambling-related risk, particularly among young adults and student athletes.
Questions must be submitted electronically to OCFRGRANTS@dbh.ohio.gov by May 29. Responses to frequently asked questions will be posted to the DBH Funding Opportunities web page. Applications must be submitted to OCFRGRANTS@dbh.ohio.gov by 3:00 p.m. on June 5.
Ohio Soul Shop Training for Trainers
The Soul Shop™ Training for Trainers equips participants to bring lifesaving, faith-based suicide prevention training to their communities using the Soul Shop model and methodology. Ohio residents are invited to become suicide prevention trainers to faith community leaders, equipping them to respond to suicidal desperation by using the resources of the church. This $3,000 training is provided at no cost through the support of DBH and PreventionFIRST! This five-day training will be offered in five regional locations throughout the state and requires full attendance.
Training Dates and Locations: June 22-26 | Portsmouth June 28-July 2 | Toledo July 27-31 | Dayton July 27-31 | Columbus Aug. 2-6 | Akron
Click HERE to view a training flyer and HERE to see a list of Frequently Asked Questions. Questions? Email Michelle Snyder at Michelle@SoulShopMovement.org.
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Learning Opportunity with Funding: Coalition Operations and Management Learning Community
The Ohio Coalition Institute (OCI) is seeking participants for its upcoming Coalition Operations and Management Learning Community. This opportunity is designed to support coalitions and their leaders in building, managing, and sustaining effective behavioral health and public health initiatives using prevention science and coalition best practices. Participants are expected to complete their program deliverables between June and September 2026.
Click HERE to view the RFA and associated documents. The deadline to apply is 5:00 p.m. on May 22. Questions? Email OCI@ohio.edu.
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 SAMHSA Releases Mental Health Awareness Month Toolkit
The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) recently released its 2026 Mental Health Awareness Month (MHAM) toolkit. This year's theme is, "See the Person. Support the Journey."
The toolkit includes:
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REMINDER
National Prescription Drug Take Back Day: April 25
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National Prescription Drug Take Back Day is this Saturday, April 25, from 10:00 a.m.-2:00 p.m. Take Back Day provides a safe, convenient, and responsible means of disposing of prescription drugs, while also educating the general public about the potential for abuse of medications. Click HERE to find collection sites near you and HERE for additional resources from the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration. |
New SAMHSA Resources
SAMHSA has announced the release of several new resources:
Peer Recovery Supports for Behavioral Health in Rural Communities — describes how peer support services can expand behavioral health service capacity in rural areas. By elevating voices of lived experience, fostering open dialogue, and building grassroots leadership, these approaches reduce stigma and strengthen recovery networks. This advisory is designed for policymakers, public health leaders, practitioners, and rural organizations seeking scalable, community-driven solutions. Download
Beyond the Screen: Creating Healthy, Engaged Elementary School Classrooms — provides practical guidance and resources for educators and other school staff to encourage balanced, intentional use of screen-based media for children in elementary school. Download
Strengthening Systems to Address Eating Disorders — provides an overview of eating disorders and offers recommendations on strengthening public service systems to better serve individuals with eating disorders who need specialized supports. Download
New Video: 2026 Teen Substance Use Trends
The landscape of teen substance use continues to evolve and it can be hard to keep up with what’s new — and what it means for teens' safety and well-being. Even though overall teen substance use is declining, the risks are more serious than ever — with stronger, less predictable products, hidden ingredients, and an impact on mental health. In its latest Teen Substance Use Trends video, the Partnership to End Addiction breaks down the emerging substance use trends impacting teens in 2026, including high-potency marijuana, nicotine pouches, and “gas station drugs” like kratom.
This video will help you:
- Understand what substances and teen behaviors parents should know about
- Recognize warning signs that may otherwise go unnoticed
- Learn how today’s products differ from what previous generations experienced
- Gain information on how to protect teens
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 2026 Health Value Dashboard Webinar — April 29
Join the Health Policy Institute of Ohio (HPIO) on April 29 from 11:00 a.m.-Noon for a webinar on the 2026 Health Value Dashboard. Released every two years, HPIO’s Health Value Dashboard is an important tool for policymakers and stakeholders to get a complete picture of the factors that contribute to the health and well-being of Ohioans. HPIO experts will review key findings from the Dashboard, highlight trends, and examine disparities affecting Ohioans with the greatest needs.
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Preventing First Time Use Two-Part Series
Operation Parent, in collaboration with The Partnership to End Addiction, Boston Children's Hospital, and the Stanford Medicine REACH Lab, will present a free, two-part Preventing First Time Use webinar series. Click below for more information and to register.
April 29 - 1:00 p.m. | Inside the Medicine Cabinet May 5 - 1:00 p.m. | Helping Youth Navigate Influence
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Prevention and Treatment Ethics Trainings — May 1
The Problem Gambling Network of Ohio (PGNO) is hosting Prevention and Treatment Ethics Trainings virtually via Zoom on May 1. The trainings, which include 3.0 CEUs, are free for PGNO members and $20 for non-members. Click HERE to register for the prevention training (9:00 a.m.-12:15 p.m.) and HERE to register for the treatment training (1:00-4:15 p.m.)
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How Well Do You Know Your Tween? — May 2
Quiet Thoughts Matter, a community-based organization in Akron focused on emotional wellness, youth development, and prevention-centered programming, will host How Well Do You Know Your Tween on May 2 from 10:30 a.m.-Noon at the Akron Main Library (Children's Area). This event blends fun, creative expression, and guided reflection to support emotional wellness while removing the stigma often associated with mental health conversations. The presentation will feature a free trivia and journaling experience designed to strengthen communication and connection between tweens (ages 9–13) and their caregivers in a supportive, low-pressure environment. |
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Hands-On Healing: An Expressive Arts Experience — May 13
The University of Findlay Counseling Services, with support from an Ohio Campus and Community Partnership Grant from Prevention FIRST!, is hosting a free experiential expressive arts training on May 13 from 8:45 a.m.-4:15 at the University of Findlay. Hands-On Healing: An Expressive Arts Experience will feature instructors from the Marathon Center for the Performing Arts, Heartstring Melodies, Awakening Minds, and Ohio Guidestone who will guide participants through experiential sessions highlighting a range of expressive arts therapy techniques. Attendees will have the opportunity to explore creative modalities such as music, movement, visual art, and personal expression while gaining practical tools to support their own well-being or enhance their ability to support others. Participation is limited to 60 attendees, and registration will close on May 8 or once all spots are filled. The program has been approved for one CEU.
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Interfaith Conference on Suicide Prevention — May 15
The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF), in partnership with DBH, will host the Interfaith Conference on Suicide Prevention on May 15 from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at Meekers Venue in Delaware. This statewide gathering, themed, "Building Hope Through Faith and Community," will bring together faith leaders, mental health professionals, and community advocates to advance suicide prevention efforts through faith-centered dialogue, collaboration, and shared learning. Dr. Melinda Moore, assistant professor in the Department of Psychology at Eastern Kentucky University, will provide keynote remarks. Dr. Moore, who has authored two books, including After the Suicide Funeral: Wisdom on the Path to Posttraumatic Growth, works at the intersection of faith and suicide prevention and will share her personal and professional insights into suicide loss and prevention.
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2026 Drs. Fred & Penny Frese Lecture Featuring Nev Jones — May 20
The Northeast Ohio Medical University (NEOMED) Department of Psychiatry Coordinating Centers of Excellence and Peg's Foundation will present the 2026 Drs. Fred and Penny Frese Lecture in-person and virtually on May 20 from Noon-1:00 p.m. This year's event will feature professor, mental health services researcher, and community psychologist Nev Jones who will discuss how her lived experience has led her to be an advocate and top researcher in the world of schizophrenia. During her lecture, titled "The Lived Experience Voice: How Lived Experience Can Impact and Change Systems," Jones will share how lived experience can make an impact and have a voice to change and challenge systems with sociocultural determinants of mental health, psychosis-focused services, and health equity. The presentation is free and open to the public. Questions? Email bestcenter@neomed.edu.
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More Good Days, Together: A Virtual Wellness Experience — May 20
In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, join Mental Health America (MHA) on May 20 from Noon-2:00 p.m. for an immersive virtual experience designed to support your mind and body. Wellness is not achieved through a single change or action; it’s built on intentional, consistent practices that can lead to more good days. This experience will bring participants together to explore simple, practical ways to support wellness and build healthy habits that last. From the comfort of your own space, you can join MHA for guided chair yoga, reflective journaling, and calming breathwork activities that support both mind and body. This event will also offer insights into how lifestyle choices — like what we eat and how we structure our time — impact our emotional well-being.
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Ohio's 2026 Mental Health and Addiction Conference — June 1-2
Attendee registration is now open for Ohio’s 2026 Mental Health and Addiction Conference: Inspiring a Stronger Tomorrow on June 1-2 at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Columbus. Hosted by the Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities, in partnership with DBH and the Ohio Departments of Health and Rehabilitation and Correction, this 16th annual conference will focus on efforts related to mental health and addiction prevention, education, intervention, treatment, recovery, family supports, community engagement, and more. The conference will help advance the resources and knowledge essential for communities to provide support to those in need. Questions? Email Shelby Stutzman at sstutzman@oacbha.org.
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Life Is Better With You Here Suicide Prevention Summit — June 18
OSPF, in partnership with DBH, will host the Fourth Annual Life is Better With You Here Suicide Prevention Summit on June 18 from 8:00 a.m.-4:30 p.m. at the Event Center at Violet Woods in Pickerington. This impactful gathering will feature engaging speakers, practical tools, and opportunities to connect with others who are dedicated to breaking stigma, reducing risk, and supporting mental wellness in the Black community. Attendees will gain valuable insights and actionable strategies to implement in their communities.
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2026 School SUCCESS Conference — June 10-11
The Center of Excellence for Prevention and Early Intervention at Miami University is hosting the 2026 School SUCCESS Conference on June 10-11 at Eversole Middle School in Plain City. This year's theme is, "Stronger Together: Cultivating Responsive School Communities." The conference will feature more than 70 presentations and workshops and keynote remarks from Matt Eicheldinger, known as "the teacher who wrote it all down." Teachers, school administrators, counselors, social workers, community advocates, prevention professionals, behavioral health workers, and anyone who cares about young people are encouraged to attend. Cost is $25.
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Registration Open: 2026 Peer Recovery Summit — July 8-9
Ohio Peer Recovery Organizations (OhioPRO) will host the 2026 Peer Recovery Summit on July 8-9 at the Hyatt Regency in Columbus. This year's theme is "Connection Creates Recovery: Healing Happens Together." With an expected attendance of nearly 600 individuals, the Summit will provide a dedicated space for networking, growth, and learning – all of which contribute to the advancement of peer support in Ohio. Register HERE to attend the Summit. If you’re interested in sponsoring, OhioPRO is still accepting sponsors of all levels. Summit Sponsor registration can be found HERE. Questions? Email OhioPRO Executive Director Michael J. Krause at mkrause@ohio-pro.com.
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2026 Addiction Studies Institute — Aug. 5-7
The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center will host the 2026 Addiction Studies Institute on Aug. 5-7 at the Nationwide and Ohio State Farm Bureau 4H Center in Columbus. The conference will deliver the latest trends and evidence‑based practices in substance use disorders, featuring knowledgeable and dynamic speakers and opportunities to earn CEU credits. Participants may attend virtually or in-person on Aug. 5-6, and virtual-only on Aug. 7. Click HERE to view the agenda and HERE for speaker bios.
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 Growing our Generation: Mental health awareness Ohio Farm Bureau, April 23, 2026
ADAMH Board partners with local parks, pharmacies to promote 988 Lifeline WCH Record-Herald, April 23, 2026
Healing with horses: National nonprofit partners with Medina organization WEWS-TV, April 23, 2026
Training teachers to detect issues with students WKYC-TV, April 23, 2026
New office in Girard provides PATH to recovery Youngstown Business Journal, April 23, 2026
Youth Suicides Declined After Creation of National Hotline The New York Times, April 22, 2026
MCESC and ADAMHS partner to promote healthy parenting WKEF-TV, April 22, 2026
Butler County reports no veteran suicides in first quarter after devastating 2025 WXIX-TV, April 22, 2026
Drug abuse among seniors, the emotional toll on caregivers, and more WTVG-TV, April 22, 2026
Connecting care in Appalachian Ohio's behavioral health system The Post, April 22, 2026
Heavy drinking takes toll on college students' cognition, UO study finds EurekAlert!, April 22, 2026
AFSP and The Jed Foundation Announce Intent to Merge The JED Foundation, April 21, 2026
A camera, a community and a path to healing in Appalachian Ohio The Post, April 21, 2026
Taking action: opioid addiction WTVG-TV, April 21, 2026
Officials say substance use crisis defies simple solutions Findlay Courier, April 21, 2026
What is borderline personality disorder? The New York Times, April 21, 2026
New intensive mental health, substance use care program this summer WDTN-TV, April 21, 2026
Local addiction and mental health advocate retires Elyria Chronicle-Telegram, April 21, 2026
Local lacrosse teams use rivalry game to advocate for mental health awareness WEWS-TV, April 21, 2026
Bill would hold recovery houses responsible WCMH-TV, April 20, 2026
Toledo court seeks beds for women's addiction treatment Toledo Blade, April 20, 2026
Statewide study on adversity, resiliency entering second phase Toledo Blade, April 19, 2026
Overdoses decline in Licking County; fentanyl remains the leading cause Newark Advocate, April 19, 2026
Urban Mission event aims to close mental health care gap for Black Americans WTOV-TV, April 18, 2026
Toledo man finds recovery through local behavioral health organization WTVG-TV, April 18, 2026
Weapons-grade chemical carfentanil surges as dangerous substitute for fentanyl The Associated Press, April 17, 2026
SHARE Coalition celebrates seniors for being drug-free at annual breakfast Medina Gazette, April 17, 2026
Activated School Challenge funds projects focused on mental health, activity, and learning WLIO-TV, April 17, 2026
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