CLEVELAND — National data collected by the federal government underscores the need for mental health crisis services for youths and young adults across the country.
Approximately 12.5 million people between the ages of 18 and 25 experienced a mental, behavioral or emotional health issue in the past year, amounting to 1 in 3 young adults, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration.
Among teens, approximately 18% of those aged 12 to 17 had a major depressive episode in the past year, according to the same organization.
Overall, 40% of high school students reported persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness during the past year, according to 2024 data from the Centers for Disease Control.
Against that backdrop, Ohio announced it had expanded the state’s Mobile Response and Stabilization Services program. Its services, previously available in only 56 counties, are now accessible throughout the state’s 88 counties, the governor’s office announced.
The free service is available for anyone aged 20 and under experiencing mental, emotional or behavioral distress.
The CDC data shows that among high school students, persistent feelings of sadness or hopelessness varied by group.
Female students are nearly twice as likely to experience these feelings, with 53% of female individuals and 28% of male individuals reporting persistent sadness or hopelessness. That disparity was even more pronounced among LGBTQ+ students compared to their peers, with 65% of LGBTQ youth reporting these feelings compared to 31% of cisgender and heterosexual individuals.
Related: Ohio expands youth mental health crisis services to all 88 counties
Rates also varied across racial and ethnic groups. American Indian or Alaska Native students reported the highest percentage at 45%, followed by Hispanic students at 42%, multiracial students at 41%, Black students at 40%, and white students at 39%.
Ohio’s program, between July 1, 2024, and June 30, 2025 received more than 10,249 calls, according to the state. The potential for suicide was the primary reason for referral. According to the Centers for Disease Control, suicide is one the leading causes of death for teens and young adults ages 10-34, according to the most recent 2023 data.
The 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is available in Ohio 24 hours a day, seven days a week for anyone seeking help for themselves or a young person in crisis.
Young people in crisis, their peers, parents, educators, medical professionals and law enforcement officers can call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline to request MRSS. A team of trained professionals, including a licensed clinician, will respond within an hour, wherever the youth is located.
Responders can help calm the situation, make a safety plan and provide resources for ongoing support. With parental or guardian consent, MRSS includes up to 42 days of coordinated stabilization services, including skill-building and connection to community resources.
“When it comes to our children, we have no time to lose,” DeWine said in a statement. “Far too many are struggling with their mental health, and parents and caregivers don’t know where to turn when their child needs help. MRSS provides that immediate help to all young people, no matter where in Ohio they live.”
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