COLUMBUS – The Ohio State University and Gov. Mike DeWine last week announced a new research initiative to identify the root causes of what DeWine termed an “ongoing epidemic” of persistent emotional distress, suicide, and drug overdose in the state.
Led by clinicians and researchers at The OSU Wexner Medical Center and College of Medicine, in collaboration with Nationwide Childrens Hospital and eight other universities and hospitals, the $20 million SOAR Study will investigate the role of biological, psychological, and social factors that underlie the mental health crisis.
Like other areas of the country, Ohio has seen a rise in mental illness, suicide, and deaths related to drug overdose over the past decade, and the COVID pandemic exacerbated these problems. This research investment demonstrates Ohio’s commitment to improving mental health.
The initial $20 million grant will be provided by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services.
The SOAR study will observe Ohioans in their local communities, using an integrated “bring science to the people” approach while creating “a statewide medical research and development ecosystem” to advance in mental health and substance use prevention science and treatment.