OKLAHOMA CITY (KFOR) - The Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) released on Tuesday its mental health-related calls dispatched to Oklahoma City police officers showing a decline in the past 13 months.
According to the ODMHSAS, the decline showcases a shift in the perception people experience mental health crises in Oklahoma City when being connected with specialized support without law enforcement intervention.
“It is encouraging to see such a significant reduction in OKCPD officers being dispatched to mental health-related calls,” Oklahoma City Police Chief Ron Bacy said. “It’s only possible with collaboration among 911 call takers and dispatchers, OKCPD officers and community partners who are trained to help people in crisis connect to the resource they need in that moment.”
Mental health-related calls dispatched to Oklahoma City police officers dropped by over 57% from October 2023 to October 2024—from 1,292 calls in October 2023 to 549 calls in October 2024, says ODMHSAS.
Chief Bacy credits the accomplishment of increased mental health-related programs, partnerships with the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services (ODMHSAS) and mental health service providers as significant drivers for the reduction for Oklahoma City residents.
“The 988 Lifeline has become a vital resource for people in distress, offering life-changing support and connecting them with the services they need,” Allie Friesen, ODMHSAS Commissioner said. “By working closely with partners like OKCPD, we are reshaping how crises are handled across the state and setting a powerful example of what’s possible when we invest in mental health. This progress underscores Oklahoma’s commitment to improving mental health crisis response through expanded services, enhanced training, and a network of robust community resources, with Oklahoma City’s successes serving as a model for statewide efforts.”
Launched in July 2022, the 988 Mental Health Lifeline plays a pivotal role in connecting Oklahomans experiencing mental health challenges with crisis specialists.
ODMHSAS officials say, calls to 988 increased significantly in Oklahoma County during the same period. From October 2023 to October 2024, the monthly call volume increased by 79%,
climbing from 193 calls in October 2023 to 345 calls in October 2024. Overall, calls to 988 statewide average 3,004 per month.
“Oklahoma City has developed numerous crisis resources over the past several years, so it’s no surprise 911 calls are down,” says Heather Helberg, CEO of Hope Community Services.
“These resources include three Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) that work closely with law enforcement and the fire department, offering alternative crisis responses like Urgent Recovery Centers and Mobile Crisis teams. Collaboration among these community partners is ongoing, and we’re continually improving our response to mental health crises.”
Click here to read the more about the City of Oklahoma City’s mental health programs.
Visit 988 Oklahoma to access the 988 Mental Health Lifeline.
