Teaming up to improve access to mental health services

Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) is partnering with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, North Dakota Chapter to raise awareness about mental health resources this summer. For every strikeout thrown, BCBSND’s Caring Foundation will make a donation to American Foundation for Suicide Prevention to support their suicide prevention education programs.

Proudly partnering with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention for the 2025 season

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Mental health tips

Provided by American Foundation for Suicide Prevention

Watch for warning signs

  • A person may talk about feeling hopeless, being a burden to others, having no reason to live or feeling trapped.
  • Behaviors that may signal risk such as withdrawing from activities, isolating from friends and family, sleeping too little or too much, giving away prized possessions.
  • People who are struggling may display one or more moods including depression, anxiety, loss of interest, agitation and rage.
Upset woman frustrated by problem sitting on couch, embracing knees,
Sad child hugging his mother

If you’re concerned about someone

  • Talk to them in private. Listen to their story and let them know you care. That one conversation could save a life.
  • Take the person seriously. Work with them to keep them safe.
  • Follow up after a crisis to see how they’re doing.

If you’re struggling

  • Treat yourself like you would treat someone else who needs help
  • Text or call the 988 Suicide Crisis Lifeline
  • Reach out to a trusted friend or family member
  • Seek mental health treatment
Man struggling with mental health

State of the stigma

#1

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

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

46%

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

38th

North Dakota ranks in the bottom 12 of 50 states for ability to access a health care provider in a timely matter

Previous Strike Out the Stigma partners

2023

2024