COLUMBUS, Ohio -- Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s RecoveryOhio initiative will host Mental Health Day at the Ohio State Fair on Friday, July 26, 2024.

On Friday, fairgoers will be able to access behavioral health resources and information at state agency booths throughout the fairgrounds. These resources aim to make prevention, treatment, and recovery supports more visible and accessible to all Ohioans.

“Mental health challenges impact Ohioans from every city, town, village, and community across our state, and we need to do everything in our power to connect people who are struggling to supports that can make a real difference in achieving recovery,” said Governor DeWine. “We encourage everyone to come out to the State Fair on Mental Health Day to learn about the resources we offer through RecoveryOhio and programs throughout the state to help people break through mental health challenges and reach their full potential.”

“We are excited to host Mental Health Day at the Ohio State Fair,” said Aimee Shadwick, Director of RecoveryOhio. “Our partners have put together a range of engaging and educational exhibits that highlight the resources and supports available to Ohioans. We hope everyone comes out and learns how to support mental health for themselves and their loved ones.”

Fairgoers will be greeted at the north entrance (Cardinal Gate) by staff from several state agencies, including RecoveryOhio, the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS), and the Ohio Department of Insurance (ODI).

The first 5,000 guests will receive a free bag with educational information and promotional items. Directors from each agency will also be on hand in the morning to greet fairgoers.

Fairgoers can visit the Bricker Marketplace Building to experience the OhioMHAS, ODI, and Beat the Stigma booths. Experts will be on-hand to answer questions about services and benefits, pass out literature, and provide guidance on how to connect with community resources throughout Ohio. ODI staff will showcase their Mental Health Insurance Assistance Office and share resources for employers and individuals. At the “Beat the Stigma” booth, fair patrons can step into a replica of the gameshow booth featured in campaign PSAs to challenge their knowledge of mental illness, addiction, and stigma.

The fair will also feature information about Ohio’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline. OhioMHAS' booth will include a 988 Myths vs. Facts Quiz for visitors to test their knowledge of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.

The 988 Lifeline provides 24/7, free and confidential support for people in distress, prevention and crisis resources for individuals or their loved ones, and best practices for professionals.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 or visit 988Lifeline.org for 24/7, confidential support.

For pricing information, directions, and the full schedule of events at the Ohio State Fair, visit www.ohiostatefair.com. Parking is free every day of the fair.

RecoveryOhio works to improve mental health and addiction services in Ohio by providing access to resources and support for individuals and families affected by mental health and substance use disorders. Visit RecoveryOhio.gov for more information.