Confronting mental illness

It is so refreshing to hear a candidate for elected office in Oklahoma talk openly about the importance of mental health. Cathy Costello, a Republican candidate for labor commissioner, is perhaps the first candidate in the country to link mental health issues with the workplace. In a state that consistently ranks near the bottom nationally in mental health funding, it’s not surprising that Costello’s boldness on the issue seems to make some uncomfortable. At a recent debate, her remarks about the killing of her husband at the hands of their mentally ill son, as well as the importance of mental health in the workplace, were embarrassingly met with audible groans from some in the audience. It was a stark reminder of both the stigma and lack of education about mental illness that continues to exist in Oklahoma in 2018.

Perhaps it shows why funding for mental health is often treated as some “cute little extra” when it’s time to cut the state budget. It has been said that

change only occurs when people become uncomfortable. Kudos to Costello for her willingness to do just that.

Dorian Quillen, Oklahoma City