COLUMBUS – State Rep. Dontavius L. Jarrells (D-Columbus) Wednesday hosted a Behavioral Health Legislative Brunch at the Vern Riffe Center, bringing together behavioral health professionals, advocates, and community leaders from across Ohio to discuss strategies for improving behavioral health outcomes statewide.
The collaborative event was designed to identify actionable policy solutions and strengthen partnerships among stakeholders working to address Ohio’s growing behavioral health challenges. Guests participated in a roundtable discussion facilitated by Rep. Jarrells, Multiethnic Advocates for Cultural Competence (MACC)’s Executive Director and Franklin County Commissioner Erica Crawley, Erika Clark-Jones of the Alcohol, Drug, and Mental Health (ADAMH) Board of Franklin County.
“Behavioral health is not a side issue. It is a family issue, a workforce issue, a public safety issue, and a quality-of-life issue. Every day, Ohioans are fighting battles that nobody else can see. Our responsibility is to make sure they do not have to fight those battles alone. When people can access care, communities are stronger, families are healthier, and lives are transformed. That is the future we should be building together,” said Rep. Jarrells.
Stakeholders emphasized the importance of expanding access to behavioral health services, strengthening the workforce, and increasing compensation for behavioral health professionals to attract and retain qualified providers. Guests also discussed the need to elevate public understanding of behavioral health care as lifesaving and life-changing support that is essential to healthy communities. They agreed that expanding access to quality care and investing in the workforce are critical steps toward strengthening Ohio’s behavioral health safety net.
“Real solutions start with real conversations. This roundtable created space for those on the front lines of mental health to share challenges, opportunities, and ideas for meaningful change so that everyone in Ohio has the same opportunities to thrive, and not just survive,” said Director Crawley.
Ohio continues to face growing behavioral health needs, forums such as this provide a critical opportunity to elevate expert voices, identify policy priorities, and build consensus around solutions. With nearly one in four Ohio adults experiencing a mental health condition, the need for sustained investment and coordinated action has never been greater. Rep. Jarrells remains committed to partnering with providers, advocates, and community leaders to strengthen Ohio’s behavioral health infrastructure and ensure that every Ohioan has access to the lifesaving and life-changing care they deserve.