Ohio Suicide Prevention Foundation Board Member Spotlight: John Davidson

Meet John Davidson, our OSPF board member spotlight. With over 20 years of experience as a Certified Financial Planner, he excels in banking, strategic planning, and personal financial management. We’re lucky to have his expertise and insights on our board.

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

A1: A good friend was talking to me about a neighbor who had recently died by suicide, leaving a wife and young children.  We talked about the failure of the mental health system and an epidemic-level mental health crisis.  It reminded me of several others who have lost friends or loved ones to suicide; parents of friends, friends of my children, former classmates, and many others who struggle with mental health issues.  So many people have family members, friends, or someone in their lives who have dealt with suicide or mental health issues, somewhat similar to cancer or numerous diseases needing a cure.  But there are two major differences.  One, most people don’t talk about suicide (stigma), and two, suicide as a cause of death is preventable.  We know the cure. I want to help OSPF eliminate the stigma and promote better mental health programming to eliminate suicide. 

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

A2: It is still early, but we are becoming better focused on the mission and developing the resources necessary to make it happen. 

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

A3: From playing a crucial role with other stakeholders in getting Ohio’s 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline up and running and working with the legislature to make sure it is properly funded, to community outreach and training for employers, first responders, and other significant populations on suicide prevention, youth programming, veteran programming, to postvention support – OSPF works to raise awareness and promote prevention strategies across Ohio. 

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

A4: We come from different backgrounds and have different skills, but everyone is focused on OSPF’s mission.

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

A: Speak up! Tell your story. Talk about how suicide and mental health issues have impacted your life or those around you to reduce the stigma. If you are willing to talk about it, others will be strengthened to do the same. When everyone is talking about it, that’s when we can make real progress. You don’t have to be a licensed therapist to help; Get involved in training programs like QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) to feel more comfortable and better prepared to talk about suicide with people who may be struggling. Bring other OSPF resources like Be Present Ohio to your school.