MINOT AIR FORCE BASE, ND ( KXNET ) — On September 27, the Minot Air Force base hosted a day dedicated to suicide prevention.

The day consisted of physical activities with essential training to give people tools to recognize and address mental health challenges.

A two-mile flightline run started the day, uniting personnel from the 91st Missile Wing and 5th Bomb Wing — it was a team-building exercise and a reminder of the importance of maintaining physical fitness and mental health.

After the run, Airmen from 91MW participated in classes that focused on suicide prevention and resiliency — expert speakers shared insights on recognizing signs of mental distress and understanding factors that are related to suicidal ideation.

Airmen from 5BW broke off and continued the conversation of resiliency, learning to identify verbal and behavioral cues that someone may be showing, as well as ways to approach someone who needs help.

Those in attendance discovered techniques to build resilience — including stress management, mindfulness, and 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 91MW Commander Col. James Schlabach. “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.”

Airmen can make sure that everyone feels valued and supported by fostering a culture of understanding.

If you or someone you know needs support, you are asked to reach out to a trusted individual.

Here are some resources:

• Veterans Crisis Line
  • Dial 988 then press 1
• Military OneSource
• Minot Specific helplines
  • Chaplain Corps
    • Duty hours: (701) 723-2456
    • After-hours emergency: (701) 509-4230
  • Mental Health
    • (701) 723-5527

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