Oklahoma Recognizes Mental Health Awareness Month with Statewide Events and Expanded Access to Support

Mental health affects every Oklahoman—whether through personal experience or the lives of family, friends, and coworkers. In recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month, the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is highlighting the importance of mental well-being and the resources available across the state to support it.

“Mental health challenges do not just affect the individual—they impact families, workplaces, schools, and entire communities,” said ODMHSAS Commissioner Allie Friesen. “Recognizing the early signs of mental health conditions and accessing treatment can significantly improve quality of life.”

Despite how common mental health conditions are, stigma and lack of awareness often continue to be barriers to care. According to the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, nearly 1 in 5 U.S. adults experience a mental health condition each year. At ODMHSAS, anxiety and depression remained the most frequently reported mental health conditions among individuals receiving services. ODMHSAS data shows that mood disorders accounted for nearly 40% of all adult outpatient mental health admissions in 2024. 

Throughout May, ODMHSAS and its community partners will host events, trainings, and educational opportunities to raise awareness and promote accessible mental health care: 

• May 13–15 – ODMHSAS Children’s Behavioral Health Conference – in Norman – A three-day in-person event for the advancement of children’s mental health.

• May 14 – Youth Mental Health First Aid Training – A virtual training hosted by ODMHSAS for adults to assist adolescents in mental health crises.

• May 17 – NAMIWalks Oklahoma – at Scissortail Park in Oklahoma City – A family-friendly 5K fundraising event focused on raising awareness, inspiring hope, and breaking the stigma around mental health.

• May 23 – Youth Mental Health First Aid Training – in Edmond – An in-person training hosted by ODMHSAS for adults to assist adolescents in mental health crises.  

• May 30 – Adult Mental Health First Aid Training – A virtual training hosted by ODMHSAS for adults to assist individuals in mental health crises.

• Available Anytime – ARE YOU OK? Training – A free, self-paced online course from ODMHSAS to help Oklahomans prevent and respond to suicide in the workplace.

ODMHSAS delivers critical, statewide access to mental health services, including personalized treatment plans, counseling, referrals, psychiatric care, peer support, and family therapy. Oklahomans can also access 24/7, free, and confidential support through the 988 Mental Health Lifeline, available by call or text. Trained professionals offer crisis intervention, resource referrals, and more—day or night. 

Mental health is health—and everyone has a role to play. Whether it’s learning more, encouraging support, or prioritizing self-care, small steps lead to stronger communities. This Mental Health Awareness Month, ODMHSAS invites all Oklahomans to take part in creating a more supportive, resilient, and mentally healthy state.