Teaming up to improve access to mental health services

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) is partnering with the Brady Oberg Legacy Foundation to raise awareness about mental health resources this summer. For every strikeout thrown, BCBSND’s Caring Foundation will make a donation to support their military retreats and mental health programs.

Proudly partnering with the Brady Oberg Legacy Foundation for the 2026 season.

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Mental health tips

For veterans

  • Stay connected in your own way
    Spend time with others, even in small, everyday moments. You don’t have to open up all at once.

  • Lean on people who understand
    Connecting with fellow veterans can help you feel less alone and more understood.

  • Know the signs to watch for
    Changes in sleep, mood, anger, isolation or substance use are common and worth paying attention to.

  • Asking for help is part of taking care of yourself
    Mental health support matters, and reaching out is a strong, important step.

  • Give yourself time to rebuild and adjust
    Life after service takes patience. Progress may be slow, and that’s okay.
Back view of long hair brunette girl sitting on the pier near lake at sunset time
Three generations of family men laughing together, close up

For caregivers and loved ones

  • Be present without trying to fix everything
    Time together and listening often matter more than having the right words.

  • Keep connection natural and low-pressure
    Conversations tend to happen more easily during shared activities than formal talks.

  • Encourage support beyond yourself
    Help them stay connected to other veterans or trusted networks.

  • Learn what to look for
    Withdrawal, irritability, sleep changes or mood shifts can signal they may need extra support.

  • Take care of yourself, too
    Supporting someone else is hard. Make sure you have space, support and resources as well.

State of the stigma

#1

Mental health was the top chronic condition by BCBSND claimants in 2024 and 2025

1 in 8

In 2021, one out of eight adults in North Dakota reported at least two weeks of mentally unhealthy days in the past month

62%

Over half of North Dakotans live in an area experiencing a shortage of mental health care providers

24%

Nearly a quarter of residents experience limited access to primary care due to provider shortages

2023

2024

2025