We are continuing our Early & Often series, highlighting why it’s so important to connect with your state legislators before the next legislative session begins. These early conversations can help shape the bills your legislators choose to author, sponsor, and support, while improving outcomes for your neighbors and your community. Last week, we focused on […]
Speak Up for Mental Health: Why Early Advocacy Matters Read More »
For Oklahomans who care deeply about improving outcomes for our neighbors, especially those experiencing homelessness or mental illness, recent news has been hard to hear. The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services recently announced $40 million in cuts to service providers, ending nearly 300 contracts with organizations statewide. Just days later, Governor
When Should You Contact Your State Legislators? Early & Often. Read More »
Please note: This post discusses suicide and self-harm and may be distressing for some readers. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, you are not alone. Help is available through the U.S. national suicide and crisis helpline—call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. Day Two of the 31st Annual Zarrow
The 31st Annual Zarrow Mental Health Symposium is off to a powerful start. Wednesday’s attendees had the opportunity to choose from 20 breakout sessions covering a wide range of topics, from ethical responsibilities of clinical practice to innovative approaches in mental health care. The day’s highlight was the opening keynote from Dr. Christine Caldwell, a
Day One Recap: The 31st Annual Zarrow Mental Health Symposium Read More »
As a street outreach and housing service provider in the Tulsa area, we are extremely concerned by Governor Stitt’s “Operation SAFE” program that does nothing to address the root cause of homelessness. Each day, our outreach teams engage with Oklahomans experiencing homelessness and work tirelessly to get them into housing, connected with healthcare, and find
Statement from CEO, Carrie Blumert, on Operation SAFE Read More »
Please note: This post discusses suicide and self-harm and may be distressing for some readers. If you or someone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, you are not alone. Help is available through the U.S. national suicide and crisis helpline—call or text 988 or chat online at 988lifeline.org. ADAM’S STORY Adam Raine was a
Adam’s Story: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Mental Health Read More »
Mental Health America (MHA) has named 11 state legislators from across the country as 2025 State Legislative Champions—including three dedicated Oklahoma leaders recognized for their efforts to promote mental health equity, reduce stigma, and improve access to care in their home states. Senator Julia Kirt (D-Oklahoma City), Representative Daniel Pae (R-Lawton), and Representative Ajay Pittman
Three Oklahoma Lawmakers Named National Mental Health Champions Read More »
The Executive Order issued on July 24, 2025 regarding homelessness and mental health treatment includes many directives that cause us concern. Extensive evidence has shown that when we prioritize safe and stable housing—and combine it with voluntary and personalized access to resources and treatment—homelessness can be brief and nonrecurring. Policies that criminalize homelessness only increase
Statement from CEO, Carrie Blumert, on Recent Executive Order Read More »
On July 24, 2025, the Trump administration issued an executive order on homelessness and mental health treatment, an action which raises serious concerns for those working on the front lines of housing and mental health. Among the directives are proposals that would expand the involuntary commitment of individuals experiencing homelessness, mental illness, substance use disorder,
Responding to the Executive Order on Homelessness: What the Evidence Really Says Read More »
May is Mental Health Awareness Month—a time to reflect, connect, and amplify the critical work we do throughout Oklahoma. To mark this month, we’ve asked team members throughout our organization to share what mental health means to them—both professionally and personally. For this week’s spotlight, we’re honored to share insights from Lucinda Morte, Clinical Coordinator
Honoring Mental Health Awareness Month: A Glimpse at the Legacy of Clifford W. Beers Read More »
