Celebrating Mental Health

Mental health has a profound impact on us all. Approximately one in five Ohioans is affected by mental illness. That’s why the Mental Health & Recovery Board of Portage County is joining with the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services and RecoveryOhio throughout the month of May to champion mental health awareness throughout the community in observance of Mental Health Awareness Month.

The Mental Health & Recovery Board of Portage County is hosting an event Celebrate Mental Health on Wednesday, May 14 from 12pm-2pm at the Hometown Bank Plaza in downtown Kent featuring several fun activities. Attendees will be able to express their creative side with rock painting, gratitude letter writing, and are encouraged to wear green. Representatives from RecoveryOhio and the Governor’s Office as well as other speakers will attend and local resources tables will be available. (Rain date: May 21, 2025)

All month RecoveryOhio is encouraging individuals to help defeat stigma by Taking the Pledge to End Stigma. By reducing stigma, we can help create an environment where individuals feel safe to pursue recovery, leading to better health outcomes and stronger communities.

For those experiencing mental health-related distress, the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline offers 24/7, free and confidential support through call, text, or chat with a trained specialist.