ODMHSAS Celebrates the Success of the Employee Assistance Program, Prioritizing Mental Health in State Agencies

The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is celebrating its comprehensive Employee Assistance Program (EAP). The program promotes mental well-being and provides essential counseling services to employees across all state agencies, boards, and commissions. From July 1, 2022, to June 30, 2023, 869 appointments were made with ODMHSAS and received the following feedback:

• “You are a real-life angel. Thank you so much for this!”
• "My counselor was great, the best counselor I’ve ever had. Thanks.” “Thank you so very much, I truly appreciate you.”
• “Thank you for all your help. I can tell you that your help is just what I needed to navigate through this time in my life, I have been practicing the skills we spoke about.”

With a steadfast commitment to fostering a culture of mental health awareness, ODMHSAS is taking a proactive step to support the emotional well-being of Oklahoma's public servants.

The Employee Assistance Program (EAP) represents a significant stride in prioritizing mental health care within the workplace, recognizing that the challenges of modern work environments can impact individuals' emotional well-being. By offering accessible and confidential resources, ODMHSAS ensures state employees have the tools to manage stress, navigate personal and professional difficulties, and maintain a healthy work-life balance.

"At ODMHSAS, we understand that mental health is an integral component of overall well-being,” said ODMHSAS Commissioner Carrie Slatton-Hodges “The Employee Assistance Program underscores our commitment to providing essential support to those who dedicate themselves to serving the people of Oklahoma."

EAP serves state employees and their families seeking help with challenges related to mental health and/or substance use, emotional, gambling, marital, family relations, financial, work-related issues, stress, grief/loss or other personal problems. EAP offers phone and telemedicine appointments. EAP can also find resources in your area which include treatment centers, therapists, food banks, etc. EAP is free and confidential.

“When our state agency employees need support, we are here to connect them with counselors who can help as well as necessary resources,” said ODMHSAS Director of Recovery Support Services MJ Clausen. “Our team answers calls, really listens, and provides the person with the right resource or connects them to a counselor. It’s exciting to be part of this work that supports Oklahomans who are public servants.”

The Employee Assistance Program will be available to all state agencies, boards, and commissions, ensuring that no employee is left without the necessary support to navigate life's challenges. Last year, ODMHSAS reached 60 state agencies. By removing barriers to seeking help, ODMHSAS aims to create an environment where individuals can personally and professionally thrive.

The mission of the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services is to promote healthy communities and provide the highest quality care to enhance the well-being of all Oklahomans. The Employee Assistance Program is a testament to the department's continuous efforts to extend its support beyond traditional channels and reach those who contribute tirelessly to the betterment of the state.