Each September, Riverwood Healthcare Center joins the national movement to recognize Suicide Prevention Month. It’s a time to raise awareness, foster hope, and encourage meaningful action around one of the most urgent mental health issues of our time.
Suicide affects all of us. It’s the second leading cause of death among young people aged 10–24 and the 11th leading cause of death overall in the U.S. But suicide is preventable, and healing is possible.
“This is not just a national issue. It’s one that has deeply impacted our own community,” said Janet Larson, a psychiatric nurse practitioner at Riverwood. “Many of us have felt the loss of a friend, colleague, or loved one. It’s so important to talk about it, and to know what to do in a crisis.”
Mental Health Support Tips
Here are some ways to support your own mental health and those around you:
- Start a conversation. Asking someone how they’re really doing – listening without judgment – can be life-saving.
- Know the warning signs. These may include withdrawal, sudden mood changes, changes in sleep or appetite, or giving away belongings to friends and family.
- Create connection. Relationships and community support one of the best safeguards against suicide.
- Encourage professional help. Therapy, medication, and crisis support can make a real difference.
- Practice self-care. Sleep, nutrition, movement, and mindfulness all contribute to emotional resilience.
You Are Not Alone
If you or someone you know is struggling, help is available. Riverwood’s Integrative Behavioral Health team is here to support your mental health journey. We offer therapy, medication management, and personalized treatment plans for challenges such as depression, anxiety, PTSD, grief, and more. Appointments are available in Aitkin and McGregor or via virtual care. To schedule, call 218- 394-2490.
Additional resources, including crisis support, are below.
Local & National Resources
General Support
- Riverwood Healthcare Center Behavioral Health Services
- 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988
- Minnesota Farm & Rural Helpline: Call 833-600-2670
- NAMI Minnesota
- Minnesota Suicide Prevention Trainer Network
- American Foundation for Suicide Prevention – MN Chapter
Support for Veterans
- Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, or text 838255
- Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs Suicide Prevention: Includes free gun locks, S.A.V.E. training, and family support
- NAMI Homefront: Free classes for families of veterans
Support for Youth & Teens
- Youth Mental Health First Aid: Training for adults to support youth ages 12–18
- Minnesota Teen Mental Health Directory: Peer support, therapy access, and youth-specific resources
Let’s Break the Silence
Talking about suicide isn’t harmful – silence is. This month, we invite you to be part of the conversation. Share resources, check in with loved ones, and advocate for better mental health support in our community.
Together, we can create hope through action.