Sen. Kirt, Rep. Hefner collaborate on interim study examining mental health and intellectual disabilities

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City, and Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City, collaborated on an interim study held by the House Public Health Committee examining the challenges faced by Oklahomans who have a diagnosis of intellectual/developmental disabilities (IDD) and a mental health diagnosis, and how they can better access care.

In addition to the challenges people with IDD face in day-to-day living and accessing care, an estimated 39% to 52% also have a mental health condition. For those with autism, up to 70 percent may have a dual diagnosis. Often those individuals face significant challenges finding mental health care. The study included presentations from advocates, caregivers, and organizations dedicated to improving access.

“I’ve heard from many constituents who were frustrated in their efforts to get the kind of comprehensive help they or their family members need. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities need the same access to mental health care as anyone else,” Kirt said. “We need to commit to bipartisan solutions to solve the challenges they face getting appropriate care.”

The challenges for those with a dual diagnosis are something advocate Lindsey Spoon, who uses a wheelchair, knows all too well. She and her family sought help after she attempted suicide.

“In the state of Oklahoma, if you have a physical disability that requires help with daily living skills, no in-person mental health hospital will end up taking you. This includes disabled veterans and people like myself,” Spoon said. For that reason, after seeking help at a medical facility, she was simply discharged at 2 a.m. with no resources.

Emily Scott, Executive Director of the Autism Foundation of Oklahoma shared how a family, desperate to find mental health care for their suicidal teenager, arrived at their office seeking help. After several hours of calling, they finally found help, but in Arkansas, not Oklahoma.

Hefner, who shared her own experiences with her child who has a dual diagnosis, said there are several barriers that need to be addressed.

“There’s still a stigma when it comes to mental health. We need more mental health professionals, and better education for all caregivers about the need for comprehensive care,” Hefner said. “We heard from advocates and organizations about the work they’re doing to address these issues. As legislators, we must work together to highlight those successes and implement them throughout our state.”

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CUTLINE: Sen. Julia Kirt, D-Oklahoma City, and Rep. Ellyn Hefner, D-Oklahoma City, listen to presenters at an interim study at the Capitol.  They requested the hearing, examining the issue of dual diagnosis for individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities and mental health conditions.

For more information, contact:  Sen. Julia Kirt at 405-521-5636 or Julia.Kirt@oksenate.gov