In Crisis?

Call 988 or (877) 695-6333

Crisis Text Line: text 'HELLO' to 741741

February and Valentine’s Day often center on romance, but for people in recovery, the month is also a meaningful opportunity to reflect on healthy relationships of all kinds. Recovery is strengthened by connection - whether with a partner, family member, friend, or peer - but it also requires clear boundaries. Learning to communicate needs, recognize unhealthy patterns, and practice mutual respect can be just as important to recovery as clinical treatment. Healthy relationships support stability, accountability, and emotional safety, while unhealthy dynamics can increase stress and risk of relapse.

Recovery also reminds us that love isn’t limited to romantic partnerships. Family relationships may need time, patience, and repair. Peer support - through recovery groups, mentors, and supportive communities - often provides understanding that comes from shared experience. This Valentine’s season, we celebrate a broader definition of love: one rooted in honesty, balance, and self-respect. By fostering healthy connections and boundaries, individuals in recovery build stronger foundations not only for sobriety, but for long-term mental wellness and fulfilling lives.

Beating the Winter Blues: Practical Ways to Manage Seasonal Affective Disorder

Shorter days and colder weather can take a real toll on mental health, especially for people affected by Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). One of the most effective ways to reduce symptoms is increasing exposure to light. Spending time outdoors during daylight hours—even on cloudy days—can help regulate mood, as can using a light therapy box in the morning. Keeping a consistent daily routine, including regular sleep and meal times, also supports the body’s internal clock and can improve energy and focus during the winter months.

Staying connected and active is equally important. Physical activity, even gentle movement like walking or stretching, can boost mood and reduce feelings of fatigue. Social connection helps counter isolation, whether that means checking in with friends, attending peer support groups, or participating in community activities. For those who notice persistent sadness, low motivation, or changes in sleep or substance use, reaching out for professional support is a positive step. SAD is treatable, and small, intentional actions throughout the winter can make a meaningful difference in mental health and overall well-being.

MHRB to Host Peer Recovery Supporter Training

in March

MHRB is pleased to announce that we will be hosting the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH) 40-hour Peer Recovery Supporter (PRS) Training, taking place in Lebanon, Ohio!

Monday, March 23 through Friday, March 27, 2026, 8:30am-5:00pm

The Ohio DBH 40-hour PRS Training is a live, interactive training that teaches prospective Certified Peer Recovery Supporters (CPRS) in recovery from a mental health and/or substance use issue to use their experience to help their Peers in recovery. Prospective CPRS will engage in role-play activities and learn the skills necessary to offer high quality Peer Support. Upon successful completion of PRS training, prospective CPRS will be eligible to apply for Adult Peer Recovery Supporter Certification in Ohio. To attend the training, you must be personally in recovery from a mental health and/or substance use issue and be willing to share your personal story appropriately in a group setting. Please note that having a friend or family member in recovery will not qualify you to attend this training.

For more information and to register for training, please email: Valerie Walch, vwalch@mhrbwcc.org.

Together Toward Hope: Suicide Prevention Retreat | 9am-1pm, 406 Justice Dr, Room 128B, Lebanon OH 45036

Be a part of the lifesaving work of the Warren County Suicide Prevention Coalition for a special event planning mental wellness and life-saving suicide prevention efforts in Warren County. Cost is FREE, and lunch is generously provided by Olive Garden. While we hope you can make the whole event, you are welcome to come as you can. Feel free to bring a friend and some creative thinking for this productive and purposeful planning retreat! Must live or work in Warren County to attend.

For more information, check out the flyer. You can also RSVP by clicking here.

OSPF Seeking Grant Proposals to Fund Youth-Led Suicide Prevention Activities

The Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation (OSPF) is excited to announce a funding opportunity for youth-led programs in spring of 2026. Selected by the OSPF Youth Advisory Council, up to 10 youth-led programs (school- or community-based) will receive funding of up to $1000 to conduct suicide prevention/mental health activities in their communities.

To learn more, check out the Request for Proposal (RFP): bepresentohio.org/funding-opportunities. Applications due February 27, 2026.  

Questions? Reach out to OSPF Project Coordinator Mamta Bajgain at Mamta.Bajgain@ohiospf.org.

If someone's ever told you that you might have an issue with alcohol or drug use, or if you're just curious about whether you might have a problem, the new e-prevention tool on the MHRB website might be a great place to help figure things out.

Anyone can use the surveys anonymously. You'll get feedback on your use of alcohol or substances, tips to curb your consumption, and places to turn for help if you'd like. If you're concerned about a friend or family member, you'll get tips on how to start a conversation. And there is also a general quiz to test your knowledge!

In addition, clients already in treatment will have access to a support app designed to offer access to chat with a live person any time, day or night.

MHRB is one of three Ohio boards using the e-prevention tool and the first in southwest Ohio. To try the tool for yourself, visit the e-Prevention tool page our website.

Crises aren't "9 to 5" happenings. They sometimes come on when it's not easy to pick up a phone and call someone.

Here's the good news: you can text for help at any time! Chat with a trained person by texting "HELLO" to 741741. That person will help you de-escalate and can offer information about local resources where you can find in-person help if needed.

The Crisis Text Line is always there for you, 24/7. Just send a message!

Mental Health Recovery Board Serving Warren & Clinton Counties

201 Reading Rd., Mason, OH 45040 | (513) 695-1695 | mhrbwcc.org