In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, the conversation centers on the mental health needs of older adults—one of the fastest-growing yet least visible populations in our communities. Eileen Bradshaw, President & CEO of Life Senior Services, joins Kaitlin Foster, Vice President of Adult Outpatient Services at FCS, and Tom Taylor, Chief Development Officer at FCS, to challenge common misconceptions about aging, isolation, and help-seeking.

Together, they explore why older adults are less likely to seek mental health care, how symptoms often show up physically instead of emotionally, and why grief, depression, and anxiety can compound after repeated life losses. The episode also highlights the critical role of caregivers, the emotional weight of retirement and identity shifts, and how community partnerships between Life Senior Services and FCS are helping seniors access support without fear or stigma.

Support and stay connected to us. First, be sure to hit that subscribe button wherever you're listening to us. Subscribing ensures you never miss an episode, and it's absolutely free. It also helps us continue bringing you quality content.

Consider leaving us a review. Your reviews not only make our day, but they also help others discover the podcast and join our community.

Share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone who might find it interesting. Word of mouth is a powerful way to grow our podcast family, and we truly appreciate your support.

We're always eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for future episodes. Visit www.okstateofmind.com for all of our episodes. You can also email us at communications@fcsok.org with any episode ideas or questions. We'd love to connect with you.

Thank you once again for accompanying us on the journey. Until next time!

In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, Joana Melendez, School-Based Programs Supervisor, and Nichole Duck, School-Based Programs Director, unpack the complex realities of mental health within Mexican-American and Native American communities. From generational stigma and language barriers to historical mistrust and faith-based taboos, they explore how culture deeply shapes access to care and perceptions of wellness.

Together, Joana and Nichole discuss how Family & Children’s Services is addressing these challenges head-on — through bilingual services, culturally fluent communication, and community partnerships that honor mind, body, and spirit. They share firsthand insights from their school-based work, revealing how representation, trust, and simple human connection can transform fear into healing.

Support and stay connected to us. First, be sure to hit that subscribe button wherever you're listening to us. Subscribing ensures you never miss an episode, and it's absolutely free. It also helps us continue bringing you quality content.

Consider leaving us a review. Your reviews not only make our day, but they also help others discover the podcast and join our community.

Share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone who might find it interesting. Word of mouth is a powerful way to grow our podcast family, and we truly appreciate your support.

We're always eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for future episodes. Visit www.okstateofmind.com for all of our episodes. You can also email us at communications@fcsok.org with any episode ideas or questions. We'd love to connect with you.

Thank you once again for accompanying us on the journey. Until next time!

In this episode of OK State of Mind, a Family & Children’s Services podcast, Stephanie Andrews, Executive Director of Student and Family Support Services at Tulsa Public Schools, and Faith Crittenden, Vice President of School-Based Programs at FCS, break down the far-reaching effects of chronic absenteeism. From falling behind academically to feeling disconnected from peers, missing school goes far beyond a few lost lessons.

Together, Stephanie and Faith explore how cultural norms, post-COVID mindsets, and family barriers contribute to student absences — and why early attendance habits set the stage for long-term educational and emotional success. They share insights that help parents and schools work together to keep kids engaged, present, and supported.

Support and stay connected to us. First, be sure to hit that subscribe button wherever you're listening to us. Subscribing ensures you never miss an episode, and it's absolutely free. It also helps us continue bringing you quality content.

Consider leaving us a review. Your reviews not only make our day, but they also help others discover the podcast and join our community.

Share this episode with your friends, family, and anyone who might find it interesting. Word of mouth is a powerful way to grow our podcast family, and we truly appreciate your support.

We're always eager to hear your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions for future episodes. Visit www.okstateofmind.com for all of our episodes. You can also email us at communications@fcsok.org with any episode ideas or questions. We'd love to connect with you.

Thank you once again for accompanying us on the journey. Until next time!