Minot, North Dakota (KMOT) – On Friday, law enforcement and community members honored the life of Minot Master Officer Patrick Blanchard.
Blanchard, a U.S. Army veteran, died last Thursday at the age of 37, apparently of off-duty self-harm.
We don’t know what problems Officer Patrick Blanchard was facing, but his death is a work in progress for those who serve the country, those who serve the community, or, in his case, both. It is a reminder of the challenges of
Advocates of mental health care for veterans say the stigma of needing help may deter many veterans from seeking the help they need.
They may feel embarrassed or fear that it will affect their role or career in the military.
Randy McDonald founded the group Together with Veterans chapter in Minot.
The group aims to prevent veteran suicides in rural areas.
McDonald said the best way the public and lawmakers can help is to make mental health a safe topic for all of us to talk about.
“It’s okay to talk about this. That’s why Together With Veterans exists,” said McDonald.
Together with Veterans is funded through VA.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health, here are some local/national resources:
The Vet Center – 3300 South Broadway, Minot, ND 58701 – Phone – 701-852-0177
List of Veteran Friendly Counselors and Therapists – https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/therapists/nd/minot?category=veterans
CoPilot – Text “copilot” to 78573 to get free, anonymous, text message-based mental health support for veterans, service members, first responders, and their families.
veterans crisis line
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
Dial 988 and press 1
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