CLEVELAND, OH – The Alcohol, Drug Addiction & Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board of Cuyahoga County today announced the launch of a new billboard campaign to promote awareness of the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
The 10 digital billboards placed in high-traffic areas throughout Cuyahoga County feature bold, visible messaging that highlights the more than 18,000 contacts the Lifeline receives from Ohioans each month. The messaging reminds people that immediate support is available and that no one has to face a crisis alone.
The national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline is free, confidential and available 24 hours a day, seven days a week via call, text or chat. Individuals are connected to trained mental health counselors who provide compassionate listening and support. In Ohio, 988 is funded by the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (OhioMHAS) and operated locally in Cuyahoga County by Frontline Services, in partnership with the ADAMHS Board.
The ADAMHS Board’s 988 billboard campaign is made possible through grant funding from OhioMHAS through The Ohio Association of County Behavioral Health Authorities. The 988 billboard campaign coincides with Mental Health Awareness Month, a time dedicated to breaking the stigma around mental health and encouraging open conversations about emotional well-being. Billboards will remain in place until the end of June.
This initiative is part of a larger effort by the ADAMHS Board to reduce stigma, increase access to crisis services and ensure that people know where to turn in a moment of need. In 2024, the ADAMHS Board found through its Community Needs Assessment, an increase in mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression, substance abuse, trauma, and suicidal thoughts. There was not only an increase in need, but an increase in symptom severity.
The community also reported a reduction in the stigma associated with mental illness and an increase in awareness of mental health needs. This leads to more people seeking support.
As the agency responsible for the planning, funding and monitoring of mental health and addiction treatment and recovery services for the people of Cuyahoga County, the Board offers a wealth of resources to residents. It does not provide direct services, but partners with more than 75 agencies throughout the county to create a strong network of behavioral health support.
In addition to 988, Cuyahoga County residents can access other crisis resources, including the Cuyahoga County Diversion Center, United Way's 2-1-1 HelpLink and more. Click here to view more resources.