Governor DeWine's RecoveryOhio Initiative to Host Mental Health Day at the Ohio State Fair on Friday, July 25

COLUMBUS, Ohio - Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s RecoveryOhio Initiative will host a Mental Health Day at the Ohio State Fair on Friday, July 25.

“All Ohioans deserve the chance to live up to their full potential, including those who are in recovery or struggling with mental health challenges,” said Governor DeWine. “We encourage everyone to come out to the Ohio State Fair on Mental Health Day to learn about the resources available  in your community, reduce stigma, and support your fellow Ohioans.”

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 filled with educational materials and promotional items. Agency directors will be available in the morning to welcome visitors and highlight resources available for people looking for support in their own communities. Attendees will also be encouraged to visit the RecoveryOhio pledge site and “Take the Pledge to End Stigma” in support of mental health and substance use awareness.

Fairgoers will want to stop by the Bricker Marketplace Building to visit the OhioMHAS and ODI booths. Representatives 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.

“We’re proud to once again host Mental Health Day at the Ohio State Fair,” said Erin Reed, Director of RecoveryOhio. “This year’s event is all about connection—whether it’s learning about mental health resources, talking with professionals, or simply spending time with the therapy dogs at the OhioMHAS booth. We hope fairgoers stop by to explore how small moments can support mental wellness for themselves and their communities.”

The OhioMHAS booth will feature an interactive game designed to educate attendees on the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, and youth can create an origami fortune teller with mental health tips. Attendees can also leave a note of gratitude or encouragement for a member of the behavioral health workforce or someone on their recovery journey and meet the Columbus Police Department therapy dogs from 1:00 p.m. to 3:00 p.m.

For ticket and parking information, directions, and the full schedule of events at the Ohio State Fair, visit www.ohiostatefair.com.

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

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.