Ohio’s kids are facing challenges many adults cannot fathom in an age of social media and other online threats; incidents of bullying — not just in person, but via text; families struggling with economic and health challenges (including 45.6 drug overdose deaths per 100,000, in 2022); and an uncertain academic atmosphere in which lawmakers just don’t seem to be able to keep themselves out of educators’ way.

It’s an atmosphere that can lead to mental health crises that require more help than what parents or teachers can offer. But Gov. Mike DeWine has announced an expansion of statewide Mobile Response and Stabilization Services, to offer more support. According to a report by WSYX, the program provides immediate assistance to children and young adults who are experiencing something they simply cannot handle on their own.

Parents or guardians can call the 988 crisis hotline, where the situation will be assessed and, if determined necessary, dispatch trained professionals to de-escalate the situation and offer support. Local behavioral health specialists are meant to be able to respond within 60 minutes of a call.

Columbiana County, part of Region 11, is served by Ohio Guidestone. Mahoning County is in Region 7 and served by Alta Care Group.

“This is a response to what teachers have told us, administrators have told us, parents have told us … (that they) see mental health challenges among our children,” DeWine said Monday. “Significant challenges amongst our children. They are all our children, and we need to treat them that way.”

DeWine says he hopes the program will be expanded to all counties by July 1. It is meant to serve those aged 20 and younger experiencing severe mental, emotional, or behavioral distress.

What a comfort it will be to adults seeking to help the kids in their lives cope with moments of crisis, to know there is support available — quickly.

DeWine was right to expand MRSS. Now he must not let up until he does, indeed, ensure the service is available to all Ohio kids.