Why Mental Health Awareness Month Matters
May is Mental Health Awareness Month. North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) uses this time to highlight mental health as a public priority. The agency encourages every North Dakotan to take small, manageable steps toward better well-being.
Gov. Kelly Armstrong has issued a formal proclamation recognizing May as Mental Health Awareness Month across the state. This year, HHS promotes a “Healthy Habit Exchange” approach. The goal is simple: replace everyday habits that drain mental health with ones that strengthen it.
“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
Simple Daily Swaps That Make a Real Difference
HHS encourages North Dakotans to try these habit changes throughout May:
- Swap screen time for time outdoors — fresh air and natural light improve mood.
- Build in-person connections — reach out to friends, family, or neighbors to reduce isolation.
- Add movement breaks — avoid long periods of sitting by stretching or taking short walks.
- Prioritize rest — choose sleep and stress management over late nights and poor sleep habits.
These changes do not require major lifestyle overhauls. Instead, they focus on small, consistent actions that accumulate into meaningful improvements over time.
What the Data Tells Us
Mental Health in North Dakota: Challenges and Resilience
Mental health challenges affect individuals and families across North Dakota every day. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s National Survey on Drug Use and Health, approximately 1 in 5 adults in the state experience a mental illness each year. This rate aligns closely with national trends.
Yet North Dakota also shows notable resilience. According to America’s Health Rankings, 12.6% of adults in the state report frequent mental distress. Nationally, that figure stands at 15.6%. This gap reflects existing protective factors in North Dakota communities. It also points to opportunities to strengthen the supports that help residents manage stress and maintain well-being.
Crisis Support: The 988 Lifeline
Help Is Available Around the Clock
Anyone experiencing thoughts of suicide, emotional distress, or a mental health or substance use crisis can reach trained counselors immediately. North Dakotans can call or text 988 or chat at 988lifeline.org/chat at any time. Counselors are available 24 hours a day, seven days a week — including weekends and holidays.
Support is also available for those concerned about a loved one. The 988 Lifeline offers guidance and next steps for family members and friends. Learn more at hhs.nd.gov/988.
Finding Mental Health Services in North Dakota
The Mental Health Program Directory
The Mental Health Program Directory helps residents locate services across the state. Users can search by location, population served, specialty, and treatment type — including both in-person and telehealth options. Visit hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/directory to explore available providers.
Eight Regional Behavioral Health Clinics
HHS operates eight regional behavioral health clinics throughout North Dakota. These clinics offer walk-in assessments, 24/7 crisis response, outpatient behavioral health services, and referrals to additional local support. To find services near you, visit hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health/find-services.
Supporting Families: Parents Lead Program
Building Resilience in Youth Through Connection
Parents Lead is an HHS-sponsored program that equips parents and caregivers with practical tools to strengthen their relationships with children. The program centers on communication, connection, and guidance through everyday moments. Together, these elements support mental health and positive decision-making in young people.
Open conversations and supportive home environments help build resilience early. Parents and caregivers play a key role in shaping how children learn to manage stress and seek help. Learn more at parentslead.org.
Economic Assistance and Mental Well-Being
Stability Supports Mental Health
Economic stress is a major driver of poor mental health. HHS offers several programs to support financial stability for qualifying North Dakotans:
- SNAP — Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
- WIC — Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants, and Children
- LIHEAP — Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
- Child Care Assistance — reducing cost barriers for working families
Access to these resources reduces daily stress. Moreover, they free up mental and emotional energy that families can direct toward connection and well-being. Learn more at hhs.nd.gov/applyforhelp.
Community Grants and Collective Action
New Funding for Wellness and Prevention
HHS encourages communities across North Dakota to come together in support of mental health. Several new grant opportunities through the Rural Health Transformation Grant Program fund community-based wellness, connection, and prevention initiatives. Communities and organizations can stay informed about current and upcoming opportunities at hhs.nd.gov/rural-health-transformation/funding.
Mental Health Awareness Month is a reminder that everyone has a role to play. Small daily actions, open conversations, and community collaboration all contribute to a healthier North Dakota. For more behavioral health resources, visit hhs.nd.gov/behavioral-health.
