Otter Tail County Public Health was recently awarded a four-year Comprehensive Suicide Prevention Grant from the Minnesota Department of Health (MDH). The grant will focus on coordinating and evaluating a comprehensive community approach to suicide prevention. 

Over the next four years, Otter Tail County Public Health, in collaboration with community members and partners, will plan and implement suicide prevention efforts throughout the county.

During the fall of 2021, a workgroup was formed to gather information on community mental health needs. As a part of the Suicide Prevention Grant, a local coalition facilitated by Otter Tail County Public Health will build on previous efforts by developing an action plan and implementation strategies for maximum mental health promotion and suicide prevention impact.

“Otter Tail County is dedicated to improving the lives of all residents and visitors,” said Reese Ellison, Otter Tail County Public Health Educator. “The goal of the next four years is to implement a plan that meets the needs of our entire community and improves mental health for all.”

Lake Region Healthcare is partnering with Otter Tail County in prevention efforts to implement the Zero Suicide framework. 

“This important collaboration will improve suicide prevention efforts in our communities and help us better equip our staff to best care for people at risk of suicide and self-harm,” said Chief Nursing Officer Roberta Young.

With the training and technical assistance from MDH, this organizational framework will be used to increase suicide care management, access to mental health services, and follow-up care for individuals identified as at-risk for suicide.

Individuals who would like to participate in the coalition should contact Otter Tail County Public Health Department’s Heath Educator, Reese Ellison, at rellison@ottertailcounty.gov.

If you or someone you know needs free and confidential support, call the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline or text the Crisis Text Line at 741741. In addition, the local Mobile Mental Health Crisis Response Team is available to respond to your needs 24/7. Call the center’s toll-free number at 800-223-4512.