The Otter Tail County Board of Commissioners has proclaimed May 2026 as Mental Health Awareness Month. Recognized each May since 1949, this month is a reminder that mental health is just as important as physical health and that no one must face their struggles alone. 

The numbers close to home 

Mental health challenges are growing in Otter Tail County. The number of adults reporting frequent mental distress has more than doubled from eight percent in 2015 to 19 percent in 2025. The average number of poor mental health days per month has also nearly doubled, from 2.7 days in 2016 to 5 days in 2025. And between 2019 and 2023, the county’s suicide rate was 21 per 100,000 people, compared to the statewide average of 14. 

“Behind these stats is a neighbor, a friend, a family member and these numbers are shared not only as a call for concern, but as an invitation to collective action, compassion, and a renewed commitment to working together toward solutions,” said Otter Tail County Human Services Assistant Director Jessica Steinbrenner. “Everyone can play a part in supporting mental health.” 

Help is available 

Otter Tail County Human Services offers confidential support for adults, children, and families including crisis response, case management, substance use treatment, and services for veterans. Residents can also access CredibleMind, a free online platform with mental health tools and resources available any time of day. A full listing of services is available at ottertailcounty.gov. 

“We really want people to feel hopeful and to know that support is available. Mental health exists on a spectrum, and there are resources to meet people wherever they’re at,” shared Megan Adams, Otter Tail County Behavioral Health Supervisor. “No one has to navigate challenges alone. There is help available and reaching out is the first step.” 

Ways to get involved 

Join the Otter Tail County Suicide Prevention Coalition and help build local efforts to prevent suicide and support those affected. The coalition can also help businesses set up mental health and suicide prevention training for employees. 

Spread the word. Organizations like the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the Minnesota Department of Health, and Mental Health America offer free toolkits with resources and social media posts to help raise awareness in your network. 

Get help now

Call or text 988 the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline which is available 24/7. 

Call the Mobile Crisis Mental Health Services at 800-223-4512 for local services. 

Visit www.ottertailcounty.gov for a full list of local resources from Human Services at the county. 

This May, Otter Tail County encourages everyone to check in on a neighbor, share a resource, or simply start a conversation. There is hope. Help is available.