HHS urges suicide prevention, mental health awareness support during the holidays

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North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is emphasizing the critical importance of suicide prevention and mental health awareness during the holiday season. While the holidays can bring joy and togetherness, they can also heighten stress, loneliness, or despair for many individuals. Recognizing the warning signs of suicide and taking action to help yourself or others can save a life.

"Nobody thinks it's going to happen to them-until it does," said Melissa Markegard, Suicide Prevention Administrator for HHS. "Warning signs are often missed or dismissed until it's too late. That's why it's vital to stay vigilant, have open conversations, and reach out for help. Call or text 988-don't wait."

Call data from FirstLink, the agency that answers the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for North Dakota, has taken nearly 8,000 calls, texts and chats in 2024. Nearly 1,200 of those were dialed in October.

Know the risk factors and warning signs

Many people who experience suicidal thoughts exhibit warning signs that can be identified and addressed. Recognizing these signs and responding promptly can prevent a crisis:

Risk factors

• Mental health conditions, such as depression or anxiety
• Substance use or abuse
• Family dysfunction, trauma, or relationship conflicts
• Access to lethal means like firearms or medications
• Significant life changes, including job loss or the death of a loved one

Warning signs

• Talking about wanting to die or expressing feelings of hopelessness
• Behavioral changes, such as withdrawing from social activities, giving away possessions, or fixating on death
• Sudden mood shifts, especially calmness after a period of turmoil
• Sharing alarming messages or posts on social media

What you can do to help others

Taking immediate steps can make a life-saving difference:

• Ask directly: Don't shy away from asking, "Are you thinking about suicide?"
• Listen without judgment: Show compassion and avoid minimizing their feelings.
• Provide reassurance: Emphasize that they're not alone and that help is available.
• Secure dangerous items: Remove potential means for self-harm, such as weapons or pills.
• Contact help: Call or text 988 for guidance from a trained crisis counselor.

Self-care for mental wellness

For those struggling with stress or emotions during the holidays, small steps can promote mental well-being:

• Stay connected: Reach out to friends or family, even for brief check-ins.
• Set boundaries: It's okay to decline additional responsibilities.
• Take breaks: Dedicate time to activities that recharge you, like walking or journaling.
• Acknowledge your feelings: Allow yourself to experience and process emotions without judgment.

Help Is available anytime

"Help is always just a call away," Markegard said. "Reaching out to the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline can be the first step toward hope and healing. You don't have to go through it alone."

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline

• Someone to talk to: Call or text 988 or visit 988lifeline.org.
• In-person support: Mobile crisis teams are available statewide to provide immediate assistance. This can be accessed through either 988 or 911.
• Specialty care: The CARES Crisis Response team supports individuals with developmental disabilities. This is accessed through 988.
• Crisis stabilization: Crisis stabilization facilities are available across the eight regions to those in need. Additionally, Fargo, Bismarck, Minot, Williston, and Jamestown provide 24/7 short-term residential, walk-in care. Contact your regional Human Service Center behavioral health clinic for assistance.

New resource for prevention efforts

HHS has also launched a Suicide Fatality Review Commission and a dashboard, offering near real-time data on suicide trends across the state. Both of these initiatives are intended to help North Dakota behavioral health leaders, local public health units and other care providers, better learn how to support individuals in crisis and support suicide prevention.

Be prepared, take action

This holiday season, North Dakotans can make a difference by being proactive, recognizing warning signs, and knowing how to act. Together, we can ensure no one feels alone or without hope.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text 988 today. Help is free, confidential, and available 24/7.

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