May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is highlighting the importance of mental health, while encouraging individuals to take small, manageable steps to support their overall well-being.
Gov. Kelly Armstrong has issued a proclamation recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month across North Dakota.
This year, HHS is promoting a “Healthy Habit Exchange” approach and encouraging North Dakotans to make simple, everyday changes that can positively impact mental health.
“Small, consistent steps can have a meaningful impact on mental health over time,” said HHS Behavioral Health Clinical Policy Director Shauna Eberhardt. “Mental health is not just about responding in times of crisis, it’s about building daily habits that support resilience, connection and overall well-being.”
Small steps build healthy habits
HHS encourages individuals to take part in simple habit changes throughout the month, such as:
- Swap screen time for time outdoors
- Reduce feelings of isolation by building in-person connection and reaching out to meaningful people
- Avoid long periods of sitting by adding movement breaks
- Prioritizing rest and stress management over late-nights and too little sleep
What the data tells us
Mental health challenges are common and affect individuals and families across North Dakota. Approximately 1 in 5 adults in the state experience a mental illness each year, a rate similar to national trends, according to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health.
At the same time, North Dakota shows signs of resilience. According to America’s Health Rankings, 12.6% of adults in our state report frequent mental distress, compared to 15.6% nationally. This suggests opportunities to build on existing protective factors and strengthen community supports that help buffer against stress and mental health challenges.
988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline
North Dakotans can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat if they are experiencing thoughts of suicide, emotional distress, a mental health or substance use crisis, or if they are concerned about 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
The Mental Health Program Directory connects individuals to services across the state. People can search by location, population served, specialty and treatment options, including in-person and telehealth services. Learn more at hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/directory.
Accessing Services
HHS operates eight regional behavioral health clinics that provide walk-in assessments, outpatient behavioral health services, crisis support and referrals” to “walk-in assessments, 24/7 crisis response, and behavioral health services and supports to better encompass other local options that might be available outside of outpatient. To find services close to home, visit hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/find-services.
Parents Lead
Parents Lead is an HHS-sponsored program that provides tools and resources to help parents and caregivers build strong, healthy relationships with their children. The program focuses on communication, connection and guidance through everyday moments that supports mental health, well-being and positive decision making. By engaging in open conversations and creating supportive environments at home, parents and caregivers can play a key role in building resilience in youth. Learn more at parentslead.org.
Economic Assistance Programs
Economic stability plays an important role in mental well-being. HHS offers programs such as Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children (WIC), Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and child care assistance to support qualifying North Dakotans. Learn more at hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp.
Supporting Communities
HHS is also encouraging communities to come together to support mental health and resilience. Several new grant opportunities through the Rural Health Transformation Grant Program will support community-based wellness, connection and prevention efforts. Communities and organizations are encouraged to stay informed about current and upcoming opportunities at: hhs.nd.gov/rural-health-transformation/funding.
Mental Health Awareness Month serves as a reminder that everyone has a role in supporting mental well-being, through small daily actions, open conversations and connection and collaboration with others.
For more behavioral health resources, visit hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health.