Gov. Kelly Armstrong has issued a proclamation, recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month, and North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is raising awareness about the importance of mental health while sharing resources to help North Dakotans improve their overall well-being. This year, HHS is encouraging North Dakotans to "Nurture Your Network" by strengthening relationships, checking in on loved ones, and reaching out for support when you need it.
“Mental health is just as vital as physical health at every stage of life,” said HHS Behavioral Health Clinical Director Shauna Eberhardt. “When we talk openly about mental health and treat it as we would a physical health condition, we break down stigma and encourage people to seek the support they need. Mental illness is treatable, and with the right resources, people can and do thrive.”
Having the Conversation: Supporting a Loved One
If a friend or family member is struggling with their mental health, start by listening and offering support. Here are some ways to begin the conversation:
- "I’ve been worried about you. Can we talk about what you’re experiencing? If not, who are you comfortable talking to?"
- "How can I support you in discussing this with someone who can help?
- "I care about you and want to listen. What do you want me to know about how you’re feeling?"
- "Who or what has helped you through similar challenges before?"
“Sometimes your presence is enough. It’s okay to sit with someone who is struggling without having all the answers,” said Eberhardt. “Talking about suicide will not cause them to become suicidal. It’s okay to ask if someone is experiencing suicidal thoughts.”
According to the 2021-2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 25.95% of North Dakota adults have experienced any mental illness in the past year. Similarly, the 2023 North Dakota Youth and Behavioral Survey identified that 35% of North Dakota high school students reported feeling sad or hopeless almost every day for more than two weeks in a row. Help is available. From July 2023 through December 2024, the state-operated behavioral health clinics provided approximately 300,000 services to adults, youth, and families. HHS and its community partners statewide offer numerous resources and services to support North Dakotans seeking support for their mental health. Early intervention is key. Some studies indicate that 67% of individuals establish symptomatic recovery in their lifetime; however, this number increases the earlier an intervention is applied.
HHS encourages all North Dakotans to take time this month to prioritize mental health and support those in need. HHS offers the following resources to support North Dakotans and their mental health:
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
North Dakotans can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat for support if they are experiencing thoughts of suicide, a mental health or substance use crisis, emotional distress, or concern for a loved one. Trained crisis counselors are available 24/7, including weekends and holidays. Learn more at hhs.nd.gov/988.
Mental Health Program Directory
In 2022, HHS launched the Mental Health Program Directory to better connect North Dakotans to mental health services. The directory allows people to search for programs by location, population served, mental health specialty, and treatment options, including in-person and telehealth services.
Currently, 31 organizations are registered, offering services at 306 locations across the state. Explore available programs at hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/directory.
Screening tools for depression and anxiety are available at hhs.nd.gov/hsc. Screenings aren't meant to diagnose, and individuals are encouraged to share results with a primary care physician, pediatrician or provider of choice.
Accessing Treatment
HHS has eight regional human service centers (behavioral health clinics) that provide community-based services, including:
- Walk-in or scheduled assessments
- 24/7 Crisis support
- Outpatient services including therapy and psychiatry
- Referrals to treatment and recovery resources
To find the one nearest you, visit hhs.nd.gov/hsc.
Economic Assistance Programs
Financial stability plays a critical role in mental health and overall well-being. HHS offers economic assistance programs for qualifying North Dakotans, including:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Women, Infants & Children (WIC) Program
- Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)
- Child Care Assistance Program (CCAP)
Learn more and apply at hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp.
Mental health in the workplace
HHS recently launched a behavioral health hub for workplaces looking for resources to support employees with mental health, substance use disorders and other behavioral health concerns. Find the Behavioral Health Workplace Hub here: hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/workplace-resources.
Parents Lead
Parents Lead is an HHS sponsored program offering a wealth of information on communication and building relationships between parents and children focused on communication that supports mental health, well-being, substance use prevention and making healthy choices. Access information here: www.parentslead.org.
Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) Program
HHS also provides support to first responders, healthcare professionals, and others impacted by traumatic events through its Critical Incident Stress Management (CISM) program. CISM offers peer support, crisis intervention, and stress debriefings to help individuals process difficult experiences, reduce stress, and build resilience. By nurturing their professional networks, first responders and frontline workers can access the support they need to continue serving their communities.
For more information on CISM, visit hhs.nd.gov/health/EPR/PHEP/CISM
To learn about additional behavioral health services available visit, hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/find-services.