Oklahoma’s Largest Mental Health Hospital Breaks Ground, Bringing Hope to Thousands of Oklahomans

The construction for Oklahoma’s largest mental health hospital, Donahue Behavioral Health, began with an official groundbreaking ceremony celebrating the over $150 million facility. The hospital, set to open in 2026 on the OSU-OKC campus, will offer over 300 beds to serve adults and adolescents. It will play a crucial role in expanding the psychiatric bed capacity for the Oklahoma Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services.

Commissioner Allie Friesen emphasized the need for growth in mental health services during her speech at the ceremony. She spoke about the increasing prevalence of mental health disorders in younger children and the urgent need for solutions. Friesen expressed her dedication to ensuring every Oklahoman has access to the mental health care they deserve through this new hospital.

U.S. Rep. Stephanie Bice, Oklahoma City Mayor David Holt, and Sen. Roger Thompson joined Friesen in welcoming this significant step forward in expanding mental health services in Oklahoma City and statewide. Donahue Behavioral Health symbolizes the state’s commitment to providing quality mental health care to all residents.

Named after Dr. Hayden Donahue, Oklahoma’s first mental health director, the hospital will replace Griffin Memorial Hospital in Norman. The addition of an Urgent Recovery Center will also improve accessibility to mental health services for those in need.

The construction of Donahue Behavioral Health is a significant investment in Oklahoma’s future, and it represents a major milestone towards ensuring that every Oklahoman can receive quality mental health care when they need it most.

In recent years, there has been a growing concern about the availability of psychiatric beds throughout Oklahoma due to population growth and increased demand for healthcare services. However, with Donahue Behavioral Health now under construction, this gap is expected to be filled soon.

The new facility is expected to create around 250 jobs during its construction phase alone and provide essential services such as emergency care, intensive treatment programs, outpatient therapy sessions, and other support groups.

Overall, Donahue Behavioral Health represents a major step forward in addressing one of Oklahoma’s most pressing healthcare needs – expanding access to high-quality mental healthcare services.

As Commissioner Friesen put it during her speech: “We are committed to making sure that everyone who needs help gets it.” With Donahue Behavioral Health now underway, that commitment is becoming a reality – one bed at a time.