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Otter Tail County, MN – 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.
Mental health challenges are growing in Otter Tail County. The number of adults reporting frequent mental distress has more than doubled from 8% in 2015 to 19% 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.”
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.”
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.
If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline which is available 24/7. Visit ottertailcounty.gov for a full list of local resources from Human Services at the county.
Story courtesy of Otter Tail County.