CHC Hosts Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Convening in Support of Chickasaw Nation

Behavioral health equity is the right to access high-quality and affordable health care services and supports for all populations including those who live in rural areas; and persons otherwise adversely affected by persistent poverty or inequality.  Unfortunately, for many, services and coordinated care are out of reach.

CHC: Creating Healthier Communities, along with community-based organizations and Native American experts, hosted a Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder Convening on March 28 in Sulphur, OK. This event was held in support of Chickasaw Nation Citizens to improve access to resources and programs in Indian Country. Panelists shared information about how to connect and coordinate care through UniteUs, an immersive, referral-based platform.

Oklahoma has some of the highest rates for Mental Illness and Substance Use Disorders. Based on 2020 data, Oklahoma ranks 5th (25.6%) in the nation for rates of Any Mental Illness. Also, Oklahoma’s rate for Any Substance Abuse Disorders is 16.1%. This means that between 700,000 and 950,000 adult Oklahomans need services; most are not receiving the care they need to fully recover from their illnesses.

Panelists:

  • Josh Bess, Chickasaw Nation Department of Family Services Under Secretary (First American)
  • Nicholas Barton, Executive Director, Southern Plains Tribal Health Board (First American)
  • Titus Carey, Recruiting Coordinator, Hope Is Alive (First American)
  • Dr. Athena Trentin, Executive Director, National Alliance on Mental Illness, North Texas (First American)
  • Cecilia Jayme, Director of Clinical Services, Hazelden Betty Ford – Virtual Family Program for Native American Families (First American)
  • Brandi Pretlow, Vice President of Programs and Services at The Steve Fund,  Well-Being in Color Program for Indigenous Youth

CHC’s Shelly Douglas also participated in the panel. We would like to extend our gratitude to our sponsor, Telligen Community Initiative, and the Chickasaw Nation. 

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