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2021 Press Releases and Other News

November 1, 2021

Alternative Transportation Model Implemented for Persons Experiencing Mental Health Crisis

November 1, 2021 marks a big change in how Oklahoma addresses mental health crisis. Legislation passed last spring has gone into effect that allows the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services the ability to transport people experiencing a mental health emergency.

October 6, 2021

Agency Receives Federal Grant to Support Law Enforcement Crisis Intervention Training

The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) has received a federal grant to support law enforcement crisis intervention training (CIT).  The department delivers CIT training throughout the state, and has trained approximately 1,900 Oklahoma law enforcement officers from 170 different agencies.

August 18, 2021

ODMHSAS Receives Federal Grant to Aid Youth and Young Adults


The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) has been awarded a $5 million, five-year federal grant from the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration to fund treatment and other community-based services for Oklahoma youth and young adults experiencing behavioral health challenges.

June 11, 2021

TOBACCO SALES TO MINORS STILL TOO HIGH IN THE STATE

Although Oklahoma retailers as a whole were better at not selling tobacco to minors over the past year, some areas of the state still need improvement.

May 25, 2021

OKLAHOMA INVESTS IN ‘MUCH-NEEDED’ MENTAL HEALTH CRISIS SERVICES

In a move designed to aid both those in mental health crisis and law enforcement, the Oklahoma Legislature and Governor this year made history through the largest ever state investment in crisis services.

May 4, 2021

CHILDREN’S MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS DAY MAY 7 PROMOTES WELLNESS

National Children’s Mental Health Awareness Day, held May 7, raises awareness regarding the importance of mental wellness for children and young people.