LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) - A new statewide mental health study is calling on families in Ohio to share their stories, and researchers say it could help shape the future of mental health care.
The SOAR study, led by the Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center, is looking for volunteers to help researchers better understand mental health, addiction, and mental wellbeing. Participants take part in interviews, testing, and brain scans at a mobile MRI unit at St. Rita's Medical Center.
The full study takes about six hours, but it is flexible. Some parts can be completed in person, others over the phone or by video.
"We're looking for anyone over the age of 12, we're interested in families, and family is however you define family - the people that you lean on, the people that you live with," said Dr. Scott Langenecker, vice chair of research for the Ohio State University.
The full study takes about six hours, but it is flexible. Some parts can be completed in person, others over the phone or by video.
"People don't have to do all the activities; some people are like, 'Oh, I don't want to do a blood poke,' You don't have to do the blood poke. Or, 'Oh, the MRI is a little bit scary for me, I don't want to do that,' You can test it out, and if you don't want to do it, you don't have to do it, just do as much as you can," Dr. Langenecker added.
If you're interested, you can drop in at the mobile trailer located on the southeast corner of the St. Rita's campus. It's open Tuesday through Sunday, 8:30 am to 8:30 pm, now through the end of June. For more information, visit soarstudies.org.
