Week 1 — Know the Signs, Start the Conversation

Mental health is as essential as physical health—it shapes how we think, feel, act, handle stress, relate to others, and make choices. This week, we’re focusing on recognizing warning signs and knowing what to do next

Know the Warning Signs

Think of warning signs as an invitation to help. They may show up in conversations, actions, or behavior changes.

What someone might say

• Wanting to die

• Feeling hopeless, helpless, or like a burden

• Having no purpose or reason to live

• Feeling trapped or in unbearable pain

• Talking about suicide

What someone might do (especially after a painful event, loss, or change)

• Looking for a way to end their life

• Increasing use of alcohol or drugs

• Sleeping too little or too much

• Giving away possessions

• Withdrawing from activities or people

What might change in behavior

• Extreme mood swings

• Uncontrolled anger or talk of revenge

• Reckless behavior

• Heightened anxiety or agitation

How to Help (A.L.G.E.E.)

• Ask directly and kindly: “Are you thinking about suicide?”

• Listen non-judgmentally and validate feelings.

• Give reassurance and information (you’re not alone; help is available).

• Encourage professional help (988, primary care, counselor, therapist).

• Encourage self-help and supports (trusted friends/family, peer groups).

Learn & Share

• What is mental health? SAMHSA overview: https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health

• Eight Dimensions of Wellness (guide): https://store.samhsa.gov/sites/default/files/d7/priv/sma16-4958.pdf

• MDH Mental Health Promotion: https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/mentalhealth/index.html

• Suicide Prevention Trainings (MDH): https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/suicide/communities/preventsuicidetrainings.html

• NAMI Minnesota — Current Classes: https://namimn.org/education-and-public-awareness/classes/

• Start the Conversation (Seize the Awkward): https://seizetheawkward.org/#starting-the-conversation

• Supporting Friends & Family (SAMHSA): https://www.samhsa.gov/mental-health/how-to-talk/friends-and-family-members

• Safe Messaging about Mental Health & Suicide (MDH): https://www.health.state.mn.us/communities/suicide/documents/safemessaging.pdf

Crisis & Local Help (Share/Save)

• 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call or text 988 or chat at https://988lifeline.org (24/7, free, confidential)

• Minnesota Mobile Crisis Response: County numbers (24/7):
  https://mn.gov/dhs/people-we-serve/people-with-disabilities/health-care/childrens-mental-health/resources/crisis-contacts.jsp

• United Way 211: https://www.211unitedway.org — Free, confidential help finding local resources

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, call 911.

Weekly Action

Save 988 in your phone and share it with three people. Consider taking a free, short suicide prevention training and forwarding this email to a colleague or friend.

Thank you for helping build a community where it’s okay to talk about mental health—and where help is easy to find.