Oklahoma City – As National Suicide Prevention Month unfolds, the Oklahoma City Veterans Affairs (VA) office is stepping up its outreach to local veterans and their families. Officials emphasized that a range of mental‑health programs are available, from traditional counseling to innovative services designed to ease the transition from active duty to civilian life.
Expanded services for veterans
“We offer mental health services, traditionally. But we also offer things like our ‘Into the VA’ program for transitioning servicemembers,” said Felicia Cummings, a spokesperson for the Oklahoma City VA. “We provide therapeutic recreation and partner with other organizations within the department to support suicide‑prevention efforts.”
The VA’s annual suicide‑prevention report revealed that 6,398 veterans died by suicide in 2023 – roughly 17 veterans each day. Two‑thirds of those who died were not receiving care through the VA, underscoring the urgency of outreach.
How veterans can get help
Veterans in the Oklahoma City area have several pathways to access care. They can contact their primary‑care provider, call the VA mental‑health line directly, or simply walk into the third‑floor same‑day access clinic at the OKC VA facility. “Our goal is to make it as easy as possible for veterans to get the help they need, when they need it,” Cummings added.
Additional tools and hotlines
The VA is also promoting practical resources such as gun‑lock kits, mental‑health mobile apps, and the nationwide 988 crisis hotline. “Please call 988. Press 1 for veteran, and then you’ll get a responder to speak with you and help triage,” explained Falon Morgan, another VA representative.
Community members are encouraged to play a role in suicide prevention. The VA stresses that anyone – even those without professional mental‑health training – can make a difference by checking in on friends, family, or neighbors who may be struggling.
Why this matters for Oklahoma families
Strong families are the backbone of a healthy community, and the VA’s outreach aligns with local values of faith, responsibility, and personal liberty. By providing accessible mental‑health care and encouraging community vigilance, the Oklahoma City VA aims to protect the well‑being of those who have served the nation.
If you or someone you know needs immediate assistance, call 988 and follow the prompts for veteran‑specific support.
Original reporting: Oklahoma City News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
