Recognizing The Struggles Of Fathers In Oklahoma

With Father's Day fast approaching, we'd like to take the time to really thank our dads. Fathers specifically in Oklahoma deserve an extra pat on the back since they live in one of the worst states for working dads, according to a study done by WalletHub. It sounds like Oklahomans really have some making up to do this weekend.

The study they presented compared states across the nation based on a few factors:

• The work-life balance for working men
• Economic and social well-being
• Child care
• Overall health

Unfortunately, the study found that men in the sooner state generally aren't experiencing a healthy balance between work life and personal life; nor do they have the same economic opportunities or social lives that the more successful states do.

According to the study, Oklahoma ranks 45th in the country for working men life.

As the study pointed out, most families don't have the same dynamic as they once did 50 years ago. Now, many dads aren't just providing for the family. Some are sole providers in a one parent household, some aren't the breadwinners at all.

But the study conducted by WalletHub experts studied those in Oklahoma who bring home the bacon or, in some cases, can't.

Among their studies, they concluded:

• 45^th – Male Life Expectancy
• 46^th – % of Kids Younger than 18 with Dad Present Living in Poverty
• 50^th – Male Uninsured Rate
• 43^rd – Avg. Length of Work Day (in Hours) for Men
• 49^th – % of Physically Active Men
• 41^st – Child-Care Costs (Adjusted for Median Family* Income)
• 26^th – Day-Care Quality

In short, the study found that working men in Oklahoma spend most of their time traveling to and from work, spending the most hours at their occupation and also face challenges such as caring for children without proper access to necessary resources.

They are also among one of the highest populations suffering from suicide, depression and severe mental health difficulties.

So for Father's Day this weekend, maybe put aside the gifts and spend some time reminding your dad how appreciated and loved he really is.