My apologies if you have been eagerly awaiting another exciting and fun-filled article about lengthy federal forms or complex, internet-based benefits programs. I feel personally and professionally obligated to repeat a message to spark discussion, education, and acceptance. Depression, anxiety, PTSD, suicidal ideation, psychosis, and substance use disorder, to name a few, affect Veterans and non-veterans alike. Please join in as the barriers are broken and stigma removed around mental health.
The title of this article, Let’s Talk, is a nod to one of many programs offering mental health and crisis resources. I think communication and education are vital components to addressing mental health needs in our community. The communication I am referring to may require open, two-way dialogue. We should be able to ask for help if we need it. We should also be able to ask someone if they need help.
Rest assured, this will not be the only article I pen on mental health. I am not an expert, but I will attempt to provide introductory information on available resources. As we become better educated, it will be easier to identify if someone needs assistance… and easier to ask, listen, and assist. Here are a few resources available to my Veterans and my community:
- Northeastern Minnesota mental health and crisis resources: www.letstalkmn.com | call 844-772-4724 | text MN to 741741
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: www.988lifeline.org | call or text 988 | chat at www.988lifeline.org/chat
- Veterans Crisis Line: www.veteranscrisisline.net | call 988 then press 1 | text 838255 | chat at www.veteranscrisisline.net/get-help-now/chat/
- Mental Health First Aid Training: www.mentalhealthfirstaid.org
- QPR Suicide Prevention Training: www.qprinstitute.com
A quick programming note for an upcoming local Veterans event. The Two Harbors Anderson-Claffy American Legion Post 109 will be hosting an open house on Wednesday, March 29th, from 11:00 am to 5:00 pm to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the end of the Vietnam War. This is a community event open to the public, all Veterans, and their family members. A free light lunch and non-alcoholic beverage will be provided for Vietnam War-era veterans and one significant other. The Post is located at 614 First Avenue, Two Harbors.
Brad Anderson is the Lake County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.834.8326, or cvso@co.lake.mn.us
Karen Christianson is the Cook County Veterans Service Officer and can be reached at 218.387.3639, or karen.christianson@co.cook.mn.us
