Weekly Update: 5 Stories in Mental Health News December 4th
In OCI's new weekly series, we will highlight 5 updates in research, news, and more in the world of mental health.
Oklahoma State Board of Licensed Social Workers Executive Director Resigns
Last week, James Marks resigned from his position as Executive Director of the Oklahoma State Board of Licensed Social Workers. After serving in the role for over 12 years, Mr. Marks announced he would soon be taking a position with the Centene Corporation, a Medicaid managed care organization. Read more on the Oklahoma Counseling Institute website.
Celebrities Collaborate with the Oklahoma Mental Health Hotline to Raise Awareness of Service
Actors Paul Scheer and June Diane Raphael are partnering with Oklahoma’s Mental Health Hotline to create a public service announcement to raise awareness for 988. According to the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services, approximately 20% of Oklahomans report having a mental health concern and more than 55,000 Oklahomans have contacted the hotline since its 2022 launch. Learn more on the ODMHSAS website.
Perinatal Mental Health Disorders Affect 20% of New Mothers
According to a report by the Association of American Medical Colleges, 1 in 5 American women experience a perinatal mental health disorder. Though perinatal mental health issues are the leading cause of maternal death in the country, 75% of those afflicted do not receive mental healthcare. Learn more about the report on the AAMC website.
US Department of Defense Aims to Reduce Stigma and Improve Access to Mental Healthcare for Service Members
Earlier this year, The Brandon Act went into effect and was implemented by the Department of Defense. Along with improving confidentiality for service members seeking mental health and substance abuse treatment, the law also aims to decrease stigma around seeking services by changing the referral process to prevent penalties for those seeking mental healthcare. Read about the law by visiting the Military Health System website.
Schools Contract with Telehealth Companies to Meet Mental Healthcare Needs
An increase in mental health disorders among children and adolescents, combined with a shortage of counselors, has led school districts nationwide to contract with telehealth providers to meet the mental healthcare needs of students. Proponents of telehealth praise the increase in access to services, while others have concerns about schools outsourcing mental healthcare. Read more on the Associated Press website.
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