September Recognized as Suicide Prevention and Recovery Awareness Month

Resources, training and more offered to Oklahomans to raise awareness for suicide prevention and substance use recovery support

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention and Recovery Awareness Month this September, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is committed to advancing public understanding of suicide prevention and enhancing support for substance use recovery.

With nearly 300,000 Oklahomans facing substance use disorders each year and a staggering 5.5% of adults in Oklahoma reporting serious thoughts of suicide, the urgency to address these critical issues is undeniable. Each week, approximately 300 Oklahomans are admitted for urgent care or crisis mental health services. With 1 in 10 students reporting a suicide attempt in 2022 and older adults having the highest suicide rate compared to other age groups, it is clear that this is a life course issue. ODMHSAS is dedicated to emphasizing the critical need for early intervention and support across all age groups.

Reducing stigma around mental health and substance use is essential for creating a supportive environment where individuals feel safe to seek help stated ODMHSAS Commissioner Allie Friesen.

"Our goal is to ensure that everyone knows they are not alone, and that help is available,” emphasized Friesen. “Everyone plays a crucial role in suicide prevention. Recognizing warning signs and knowing how to respond can greatly impact saving lives. The aim is to empower individuals and communities to act effectively when faced with these challenges.”

Throughout September, the ODMHSAS and its partners will host a series of events and activities aimed at raising awareness and providing valuable resources:

• Sunday, September 1: Flag Ceremony at Veterans Memorial in Midwest City at 9am
• Saturday, September 7: Join the AFSP OKC Chapter Out of the Darkness Walk.
• Saturday, September 7: DCCCA & Substance Use Prevention Alliance’s Prevention & Recovery in the Park (Scissortail Park)
• Monday, September 9: The Skydance Bridge will be illuminated in teal and purple to honor Suicide Prevention Week.
• Wednesday, September 11: Participate in the "Talk Saves Lives" online presentation, an evening training session.
• Thursday, September 12: The Skydance Bridge will again be lighted in teal and purple.
• Saturday, September 14: Support the AFSP Tahlequah and Atoka Out of the Darkness Walks by visiting our 988 resources table.
• Saturday, September 14: OCARTA Recovery Walk
• Saturday, September 21: AFSP Eufaula Out of the Darkness Walk

"Community involvement is key to making a real difference in suicide prevention and recovery," said Friesen. "By working together, we can create a network of support that empowers individuals and families to take action and access the resources they need."

Additionally, ODMHSAS is dedicated year-round to several community-led initiatives designed to enhance suicide prevention and recovery support. The Are You OK? program is a key component of this effort, offering a two-part e-learning course specifically aimed at helping organizational leaders prevent and address suicide in the workplace. Complementing these efforts, the ODMHSAS Training Institute provides a broad array of mental health and addiction training events throughout the year, offering invaluable resources for professional development. An extensive online catalog of courses and conferences is available on the ODMHSAS Training Institute page, ensuring easy access to essential educational opportunities.

Support for service members and veterans is also a priority, with tailored programs such as Cohen’s Veteran Network and Eagle Ops addressing their unique needs. Furthermore, the Warriors Rest Foundation and the Ask for Backup program are dedicated to meeting the specialized requirements of first responders, providing crucial support and resources to this vital group. Oklahoma is also one of 5 selected states to participate in the SAMHSA Older Adult Suicide Prevention Policy Academy. Through these initiatives, ODMHSAS underscores its commitment to comprehensive and targeted support for diverse community needs.

"Recovery from substance use disorder and mental health challenges is possible with the right support and resources," added Commissioner Friesen. "We are dedicated to providing these resources and fostering an environment of hope and healing."

For immediate assistance, the 988 Oklahoma Mental Health Lifeline is available by calling or texting 988 24/7, offering free and confidential support for those facing mental health or substance use challenges.