It is difficult to overcome the fear, anxiety and frustration that often accompany the revelation that you may have a mental illness or need help for a substance abuse issue. Unless you have lived it, it is very difficult to understand. If you haven’t been there, then count your blessings and just take my word for it, it is not a pleasant feeling.

The simple truth, however, is that a lot of us have experienced this; and, it’s kind of sad that we don’t talk about it more. Maybe if we did, someone else would know that they aren’t the only one and that maybe there is something out there that can be done…maybe there is some help available. What is truly amazing is that everything you think you know about these things just isn’t always the case.

I am here to tell you, there is life after the diagnosis. The key…you gotta talk to someone, reach out and find help. I am not saying it will be easy. It can be difficult to find the services you need for a variety of reasons. Stay with it, because it does get better. If you have questions, call somebody…talk to your doctor, clergy, family or friends.

Call 211, a local community mental health center, or call the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services at 800/522-9054. Any of these folks can get you started on finding the answers you’re looking for.

Tell someone…get help and get well.

- Jeff Dismukes

Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

This website is designed to provide specific information and resources about the Mental Health and Addiction issues in Oklahoma.

When people think about those who struggle with mental health or addiction issues, they immediately think of the faces and situations from the news and movies. But the reality is that at some point most everyone struggles. And when they do, most people or those that love them don’t know what to do.
Your Life on Course is your online guide to the resources available to those who live in Oklahoma. It is designed to provide information, and contacts and other information that can help while any individual is looking to learn more. One thing to keep in mind, Your Life on Course is not a definitive guide on any specific or individuals situation. We encourage everyone to consult a licensed professional to talk about their specific issue.

Upcoming blog posts will be provided by Jeff Dismukes and Dr. Stan Ardoin from the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health as well as guest blog posts from.
We hope that you will find great value in the information provided at Your Life on Course – please feel free to send us suggestions, comments etc.

mkelley@opubco.com

reachout@odmhsas.org