ABC6 is On Your Side dedicated to elevating the conversation around student mental health, sharing solution-focused stories during Mental Health Awareness Month.
The following contains sensitive topics, and may be triggering for some readers. If you are struggling, please contact a mental health professional or crisis line for support.
Our team will explore the evolving challenges facing students, families and educators, and highlight progress being made in classrooms, counseling offices and communities across Central Ohio.
Image from TikTok Sensory Mom home page. Inspired by her families’ experience, Rochelle Montes started a TikTok channel called “Sensory Mom” to support mothers who may feel isolated or overwhelmed. April 27, 2026 (WSYX)
MRSS | Ohio mom finds support after son’s mental health crisis
Excerpt: “When we were in the crisis, it was extremely overwhelming and terrifying,” Rochelle Montes said. “I felt like I was not equipped for what was happening not only to handle what my son was experiencing, but my own emotions in that process.”
Montes said she searched for support and learned about Mobile Response and Stabilization Services through a contact in the autism community. She said the help came quickly.
Join the conversation and in helping build a healthier, more resilient future for the students and families.
RESOURCES
Nationwide Children’s Hospital The Kids Mental Health Foundation provides free resources to help kids’ mental health before a crisis or concern. Their website contains guides, tool kits and curriculum, built by more than 1,000 mental health professionals and researchers at NCH. Their mission is to empower adults with the resources to understand and address the mental health of children.
Kids Mental Health Foundation | Community Partnerships
Child mental health was a key priority Governor DeWine focused on during his 2026 State of the State Address. DeWine and the General Assembly recently banned cell phones in all K-12 schools in Ohio. Support continues for both physical and mental health of Ohio’s youth through an ongoing investment in school-based health centers.
Ohio Department of Education & Workforce
988 Lifeline
Ohioans are encouraged to explore the Ohio 988 Toolkit and Materials Generator for creating customizable awareness resources.
The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress. You can also text “START” to the Crisis Text Line at 741-741. In Ohio, you can also text “4HOPE.”
Trained crisis counselors are standing by to help at all times.
Healthy Minds is brought to you in partnership with Ohio Hospital for Psychiatry, Central Ohio Counseling and Wellness and Sun Behavioral Health Columbus.