Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation Board Member Spotlight: Jessica Hartman

Individuals are making a significant impact in their communities to prevent suicide, including Jessica Hartman, Executive Director of the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Wood County and Secretary of the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation Board. Jessica advocates tirelessly for mental health awareness and support. We celebrate her valuable contributions and the positive change she is fostering in Ohio.

Q1: What motivated you to join the Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation Board?

A1: I have been an active member of local suicide prevention efforts for over 15 years. I was interested in advocating at the state level to assist the local communities in their efforts to reduce suicides. I have a few family members who have had suicide attempts, and I have lost people I cared about to suicide. This work is vital to prevent others from experiencing this kind of preventable loss. 

Q2: What accomplishments are you most proud of during your time on the board?

A2: The organization was in a state of change when I joined the board. I am most proud of the work that the OSPF team has done to grow and expand their reach across the state. They have truly become the voice on suicide prevention. 

Q3: In your view, how does OSPF make a meaningful difference in Ohio’s communities?

A3: OSPF has expanded its reach through the local communities by promoting more trainings across the state, publishing standards, and supporting local coalitions. For example, through their work, there are more local trainers that teach QPR (Question. Persuade. Refer.) to their communities. In Wood County, we have over 11 trainers who work to educate local first responders, community groups, local agencies, classes at Bowling Green State University, and people who have experienced mental health conditions. This work is vital to give community members tools to engage in conversations when they are concerned about someone. Teaching people how to respond to a suicidal crisis appropriately and connecting the person in crisis to treatment services can prevent suicide deaths. 

Q4: What do you find most rewarding about collaborating with your fellow board members?

A4: There is strength in diverse perspectives, education, and work experiences. It is refreshing to collaborate with a group of people who have a passionate shared interest and diverse backgrounds. There is value in these perspectives and passion for promoting suicide prevention across the state.

Q5: What advice would you give someone interested in supporting suicide prevention efforts in Ohio?

A5: Reach out to your local suicide prevention coalition and get involved in the work they are doing. Local coalitions can always use more perspectives and assistance to promote suicide prevention efforts.