MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, N.D. -- Minot Air Force Base hosted a day dedicated to suicide prevention Sept. 27th, 2024. The day combined physical activities with essential training to equip individuals with tools to recognize and address mental health challenges.
The day started with a two-mile flightline run, uniting personnel from both the 91st Missile Wing and 5th Bomb Wing. This physical activity served as a team-building exercise and a reminder of the importance of maintaining one's physical fitness and mental health. During the run, participants encouraged one another and created an atmosphere of camaraderie further illustrating that no one fights alone.
Following the run, 91 MW Airmen engaged in informative classes focused on suicide prevention and resiliency. The classes brought in expert speakers who shared valuable insights on recognizing signs of mental distress and understanding factors associated with suicidal ideation.
The 5 BW Airmen broke off into their individual units and continued the conversation of resiliency. Participants learned to identify verbal and behavioral cues that may indicate someone struggling; as well as strategies to approach someone in distress. Attendees explored techniques to build personal resilience, including stress management strategies, mindfulness practices, and the importance of self-care.
“If you ever had a time when you were down, had a rough day or are going through a rough patch and somebody put their arm around you and they helped you get through what you had going on… reach out and thank them,” said Col. James Schlabach, 91 MW commander. “The reason we have this day is to give you the skills, the tools and the knowledge to be that person who can put your arm around someone and help when someone is in need.”
By fostering a culture of understanding, Airmen can ensure that everyone feels valued and supported. If you or someone you know is in need of support, please reach out to your local mental health resources or contact a trusted individual.
Veterans Crisis Line:
- Continental United States (CONUS):
- Outside of the Continental United States (OCONUS):
- In Europe, call: 844-702-5495 or DSN 988
- In the Pacific, call: 844-702-5493 or DSN 988
- In Southwest Asia, call: 855-422-7719 or DSN 988
- The VCL/MCL OCONUS is available to all Service members, veterans, and their families. The country code to reach the United States is required for each number and is dependent on the caller's location. Individuals calling from OCONUS, Canada, Mexico, or off an installation will be responsible for long-distance international charges from their respective carriers, even if dialing a toll-free number.
988 Suicide & Crisis Line:
The 988 Lifeline is a national network of local crisis centers. The 988 Lifeline provides free and confidential emotional support to people in suicidal crisis or emotional distress 24 hours a day, 7 days a week in the United States. If callers are unable to reach the crisis support through phone dialing, the chat service is available online in all locations with an internet connection.
Military OneSource:
- CONUS: 800-342-9647
- OCONUS: 800-342-9647 or 703-253-7599
- Visit: https://www.militaryonesource.mil/
- Service members and their immediate family can connect with Military OneSource for free and confidential counseling 24/7.
Minot Specific helplines:
- Chaplain Corps: 701-723-2456(duty hours); 701-509-4230 (after-hours emergency)
- Mental Health: 701-723-5527
AFGSC Base-Specific Resources:
(Listed alphabetically)
Barksdale AFB Mental Health Services Dyess AFB Mental Health Services Ellsworth AFB Mental Health Services F.E. Warren AFB Mental Health Services Kirtland AFB Mental Health Services Malmstrom AFB Mental Health Services Minot AFB Mental Health Services Whiteman AFB Mental Health Services
