Fargo, N.D. – Mental health challenges touch nearly every family and community, yet they often remain unspoken. By bringing the topic onto the ice and into public conversation, Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) aims to help people feel seen, supported and empowered to seek help when they need it.
BCBSND Caring Foundation, in partnership with North Dakota hockey teams, is excited to announce the return of Shut Out the Stigma, a statewide mental initiative dedicated to strengthening community well-being. This year, BCBSND’s Caring Foundation is collaborating with BIO Girls, an organization dedicated to improving the mental health and self-esteem of adolescent girls. The Caring Foundation is teaming up with four hockey teams: Bismarck Bobcats, University of North Dakota Fighting Hawks, Fargo Force and Minot Minotauros. To support the work of BIO Girls, BCBSND’s Caring Foundation will make a donation for the first 20 saves of each home game during February and March.
“Reducing stigma around mental health begins with open dialogue and intentional support,” says Dan Conrad, BCBSND Caring Foundation board chair. “By raising awareness and expanding access to resources, we’re helping create safer, more supportive environments for all.”
“Thanks to this initiative with the BCBSND Caring Foundation, we’re advancing our mission to support girls across the Midwest, combining movement with connection, mentorship, and skill-building that fosters emotional regulation and lasting self-confidence,” said Missy Heilman, BIO Girls founder and CEO.
The impact of mental health
A recent Health of America report examining youth from 2019 to 2023 shows that rates of major depressive disorder continue to rise, particularly among teens ages 15–17. In North Dakota, access adds another layer of challenge: According to the Social Drivers of Health Study, 46% of residents live in areas facing a shortage of mental health care providers.
Mental health influences every aspect of daily life – from how people think and relate to others, to how they handle stress and participate in their families, workplaces and communities. Shut Out the Stigma encourages open dialogue, builds understanding and reinforces that mental health is a universal experience. The BCBSND Caring Foundation aims to foster a community where children, adults, parents, caregivers and older adults can access compassionate care and the resources needed to live healthier, more connected lives.
How to help
- Start the conversation: Talk openly with friends, family, coworkers and community members about mental health to help reduce stigma.
- Support others: Check in on someone who may be struggling, offer encouragement and help connect them to care.
- Share your voice: Use your platform – big or small – to spread awareness and normalize mental health conversations.
- Get involved: Volunteer, partner, donate or collaborate with organizations working to strengthen mental well-being in our communities.
To learn more
For mental health tips and to read the Social Drivers of Health Report, visit the Shut Out the Stigma website at bcbsnd.com/shutout.
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About the Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota Caring Foundation
Established in 1989, the BCBSND Caring Foundation is a private 501(c)(3) charitable organization. Through giving and investing, the Caring Foundation focuses on key health issues to help improve the health and well-being of North Dakotans and their communities. Caring Foundation staff collaborate with grantees to support nonprofit sustainability, promote shared outcomes and create lasting change.
About BIO Girls
Founded in Fargo, N.D., in 2013, BIO Girls has grown to impact thousands of girls annually across a 5-state region via a volunteer-facilitated 12-week program for girls in grades 2 through 6. Combining life-skill lessons, small-group mentoring and non-competitive physical activity, the non-profit equips participants with the skills necessary to combat societal pressures, recognize their values, handle stress and choose kindness. Extensive pre and post assessments, conducted by a seasoned research team, have proven that BIO Girls programming leads to the intended outcome - a significant improvement in self-esteem in participants and a decrease in anxiety.
