Oklahoma launches ‘You Good? 988’ campaign for Suicide Prevention Month

The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) is asking Oklahomans a simple question this September: “You good?”

 As part of Suicide Prevention Month, ODMHSAS is launching the “You Good?” 988 campaign to make checking in on ourselves and the people around us part of everyday conversation, while helping more Oklahomans know where to turn for support.

Oklahoma data show suicide continues to disproportionately affect certain populations. From 2020 to 2024, males accounted for 80.8% of suicide deaths in the state, adults 60 and older accounted for 26%, and rural communities experienced a suicide rate of 28.3 per 100,000 compared with 20.2 in metropolitan areas.

“The data tell us there are Oklahomans who are struggling, and too often the people around them may not know it,” said ODMHSAS Interim Commissioner Joshua Anderson. “Suicide prevention starts long before a crisis. It starts with paying attention, checking in and creating the kind of connection that makes it easier for someone to say they’re not OK. And when more support is needed, 988 is there.”

The 988 Mental Health Lifeline is free and available 24/7. Oklahomans can call or text 988 for mental health and substance use support, from emotional distress to a behavioral health crisis. Trained professionals provide immediate support and help connect people to the appropriate level of care based on their needs.

The “You Good?” campaign includes messages designed to reach Oklahomans who may be disproportionately affected by suicide or face unique barriers to seeking support, including middle-aged men, veterans, older adults, rural Oklahomans and Tribal communities.

Throughout September, communities across Oklahoma will host events and activities focused on suicide prevention, connection and hope. ODMHSAS is also inviting Oklahomans to take part in #StepUp4Hope by creating Walls of Hope and sharing mental health and 988 resources, wearing teal or purple, moving and connecting with others and making time for meaningful self-care.

Two statewide observances will bring additional attention to suicide prevention and 988. Gov. Kevin Stitt has proclaimed Sept. 8 as 988 Day in Oklahoma, and the Skydance Bridge in Oklahoma City will glow purple and yellow that evening. On Sept. 10, Wear Teal for Hope Day and National Suicide Prevention Day, Oklahomans are invited to wear teal or purple, and the Skydance Bridge will glow teal and purple that evening.

Ready-to-share “You Good?” graphics, #StepUp4Hope activities, social media content and other resources are available in the ODMHSAS Suicide Prevention Month Toolkit.

A conversation doesn't have to have all the right words to matter. Check in. Listen. Stay connected. And make sure the people around you know that when they need support, they can call, text or chat 988.