Ohioans experiencing a mental health crisis will soon be able to call or text a three-digit number when the 988 hotline launches nationwide July 16.
hosted a virtual news briefing Thursday to provide an update on how the hotline service will be revamped across the state.
The caller will be connected with a trained counselor who can offer help, such as connecting the person with a mobile crisis response team that may include a first responder or a clinical counselor. In preparation for the launch of the 988 hotline, Ohio has expanded from 12 to 19 crisis center providers. In Greater Columbus, there are two in Franklin County, and one each in Delaware County, Fairfield County and Licking County.
The U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration provided a two-year $3.3 million state grant to improve capacity to take calls, collect data and policy development.