How an OKC organization supports Oklahomans impacted by suicide

State Department of Health data shows two Oklahomans ages 10-24 die by suicide every week. This week, News 9 received some messages from several people concerned about suicide among children. Leaders at an OKC nonprofit believe conversations are essential to saving lives. 

Oklahoma’s mental health struggles are well-documented. According to the Violence Policy Center, Oklahoma’s suicide rate is tied for eighth worst in the country. 

“Unfortunately, Oklahoma is not the best when it comes to mental health,” said Heather Gaglio, clinical director at Calm Waters. “Social media and social isolation are big contributing factors to mental health issues in our youth.” 

Gaglio said the age of children who are at risk of suicide keeps going down. 

“We have seen children who have died by suicide at the age of eleven or twelve,” Gaglio said. “We know that type of loss is really unique and sometimes hard to talk about.” 

Calm Waters helps support people who experience loss.

“There’s a lot of guilt and shame for the people that are left behind,” Gaglio said. 

A support group meets here every week for people who have lost loved ones to suicide. The sessions aim to give people hope. 

“It is kind of this lighthouse in kind of a dark time,” Gaglio said. “They can say, ‘That’s where I’m headed, and I can be okay. that I can get through this.’ It’s one of the best feelings.” 

Heather says talking about this issue does not increase the risk of suicide. 

“That’s just simply not the case. It actually can save more lives,” Gaglio said. 

Gaglio said dialogue builds community and allows organizations to self-reflect. 

“When we have relationships on an individual level, we’re more likely to hear about issues,” she said. “Are we building a community that feels like a community?"

Gaglio said it's important for schools to continue education on this issue early on for students. Gaglio said awareness can continue to shift the narrative around mental health in Oklahoma. 

"Making it a normal part of conversation, so that we can prevent this from happening and hopefully save lives,” Gaglio said.

Anyone who is struggling with thoughts of suicide can text or call 988. Crisis specialists are available 24/7 to connect people to the correct resources.