As we acknowledge September as Suicide Prevention Month, The Ohio State University Employee Assistance Program (EAP) is recognizing a wonderful community partner working tirelessly to address the growing number of preventable losses due to suicide. At The Ohio State University, Suicide Prevention Month is a powerful reminder of our collective responsibility to foster a campus culture of care, connections, and compassion.

For years, the Ohio State EAP has worked to support the mission of suicide prevention in the workplace and at home. It has been our privilege to work with The Ohio State University Suicide Prevention Program (OSUSPP) to reduce stigma and create access to support, bolstering mutual efforts, knowing we are stronger together. Our collaboration demonstrates that mental wellness is an issue that bridges departments, disciplines, and communities, and is all buckeyes’ shared responsibility.

At the heart of this partnership is the REACH© Suicide Prevention Gatekeeper Training, a cornerstone of OSUSPP’s educational outreach. The Ohio State EAP has worked as trainers for the REACH program since 2016 and continues to champion this initiative, encouraging employees across academic and medical campuses to participate in training and advocate for mental health awareness.

REACH empowers faculty, staff, and students to:

• Recognize warning signs of suicide
• Engage with empathy
• Ask directly about suicide
• Communicate hope
• Help individuals access care and treatment

On September 11 and 12, The Ohio State University will host the 2025 Annual Suicide Prevention Conference “Building Bridges to Well-Being: Addressing Social Determinants to Prevent Suicide.”  The event will bring together experts, advocates, and community members to explore innovative strategies and foster meaningful dialogue around suicide prevention and mental health. Whether through attending a REACH training, using your Ohio State EAP benefit, participating in outreach events, or simply checking in on a colleague or friend, every action matters. Every voice counts. Every Buckeye can make a difference.