Lorain Times

Gayle Manning, a state representative from Ohio, emphasized the importance of fostering a supportive environment and improving access to mental health care. "The statement was made on X."

"In Ohio, we believe in breaking the stigma and supporting each other," said Manning, House Representative. "Every Ohioan deserves access to mental health care. Together, we can create a community that listens, supports, and uplifts. This May, let's prioritize our mental health and encourage open conversations."

In May 2025, Ohio observed Mental Health Awareness Month with statewide initiatives aimed at reducing stigma and promoting access to care. According to the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services, about one in five adults in the state live with a mental illness, and over 1.8 million experience symptoms of anxiety or depression. The campaign encouraged open conversations and increased awareness of support services, reflecting Ohio's commitment to mental wellness and preventive outreach.

According to White Light Behavioral Health, as of 2023, more than 1.2 million Ohio residents with mental illness went untreated, amounting to 55.6% of those in need—a 5% rise from the year prior. Additionally, 93.5% of over 1.3 million Ohio adults with substance use disorders received no treatment. These figures highlight severe access gaps in behavioral health services across the state and a growing need for community-based care expansion.

Ohio ranks 20th among U.S. states in meeting mental health care needs, with 29.8% of those needs fulfilled, slightly above the national average of 27.7%, according to KFF (Kaiser Family Foundation). Efforts to reduce stigma include culturally competent programs designed for diverse populations, which align with national trends in inclusive mental health outreach. A 2022 state-funded review underscored these efforts as vital to addressing care disparities and improving outcomes statewide.

Representative Manning currently serves Ohio’s 52nd District and was elected Speaker Pro Tempore of the Ohio House of Representatives in 2025—the first woman to hold that post. According to her official House biography, she previously served in the Ohio Senate, where she was Majority Whip. Her legislative focus includes education, economic development, and public safety, with a strong emphasis on constituent services and community engagement.