FARGO, N.D. (BCBSND) – Mental health shouldn’t be a strikeout, that’s why one insurance carrier is changing the game. The Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota (BCBSND) Caring Foundation closed out its third season of Strike Out the Stigma, partnering with American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, North Dakota chapter, a nonprofit organization dedicated to mental health. In July, the Foundation made a donation for every strikeout during home games for the Badlands Big Sticks, Bismarck Larks, Fargo-Moorhead RedHawks, Minot Hot Tots and new to the lineup this year, the Minot Honeybees.

Strike Out the Stigma was created to help normalize and encourage conversations about mental health within North Dakota. According to the BCBSND Caring Foundation’s Social Drivers of Health Study, 46% of North Dakotans, more than 355,000 people, live in areas without easy access to mental health professionals.

“We are honored to have partnered with Blue Cross Blue Shield of North Dakota for Strike Out the Stigma,” said Samantha Christopherson, American Foundation for Suicide Prevention executive director of North and South Dakota. “These funds will allow us to continue our prevention education programs across the state of North Dakota and continue to support survivors of suicide loss. We are working to create a culture that is smart about mental health and we are excited to be reaching so many more North Dakotans.”

Throughout the Strike Out the Stigma season there were five teams, 56 games and 390 strikeouts. The funds raised will allow American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, North Dakota to provide suicide prevention education materials to nearly 1,000 people

“Reducing stigma around mental health begins with open dialogue and intentional support,” said Dan Conrad, BCBSND Caring Foundation Board Chair. “By raising awareness and expanding access to resources, we’re helping create safer, more supportive environments for all.”

By investing in mental health, the Foundation is helping build resilient communities through expanded access to care, reduced stigma and helping individuals feel empowered to seek help.

Since inception, Strike Out the Stigma and Shut Out the Stigma have benefited five statewide behavioral health organizations including The Village Family Service Center, Sources of Strength, Nexus PATH Family Healing, FirstLink and American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, North Dakota chapter.

In February and March, the third annual Shut Out the Stigma will begin in partnership with hockey teams across North Dakota, including the Bismarck Bobcats, Fargo Force, Minot Minotauros and UND Fighting Hawks.

For more information about the BCBSND Caring Foundation and its ongoing initiatives, please visit ndcaring.org