Billings Clinic – Logan Health and the Glacier Range Riders are joining forces to combat the alarming suicide rates in Montana. On August 27, during the home game against the Billings Mustangs, Glacier Bank Park will host “Let’s Talk About It” night. The Let’s Talk About It campaign is an initiative started by Billings Clinic – Logan Health that aims to break the stigma surrounding mental health and address the state’s troubling suicide statistics. Each year, over 300 Montanans—our friends, family members and neighbors—die by suicide, and the youth suicide rate in our state is more than double the national average. Together, we can confront and mitigate the factors contributing to this crisis.
One significant barrier to mental health support is the stigma that surrounds it. Historically, mental health discussions have been challenging, leading many to avoid seeking help. By encouraging open and honest conversations, we can dismantle the stigma and inspire more people to seek the support they need.
During the game, both the Glacier Range Riders and the Billings Mustangs will don special “Let’s Talk About It” jerseys. Donations will be collected throughout the evening to support suicide prevention resources in the Flathead Valley. The top five donors will receive framed specialty jerseys from the Glacier Range Riders as a token of appreciation. All contributions will directly fund mental health services in the community.
“This event gives our community a meaningful opportunity to come together for an important cause,” said Kevin Abel, co-CEO of Billings Clinic – Logan Health. “By challenging the stigma around mental health, we can create a more supportive and understanding environment. With a stadium full of supporters, we can raise awareness and inspire real change in our community.”
In support of this important initiative, from now until the end of the “Let’s Talk About It” night game on August 27, Glacier Bank will be matching every donation dollar-for-dollar up to $5,000, doubling the impact of contributions. Funds raised during the game will benefit Logan health’s Behavioral Health Support Fund, which directly aids suicide prevention resources in the Flathead Valley.
“Glacier Bank is pleased to partner with Logan health and the Glacier Range Riders by offering a $5,000 match for Let’s Talk About It night at Glacier Bank Park,” said Mike Smith, market president for Glacier Bank. “We know mental health continues to be a challenge in our communities, and it is one of Glacier Bank’s initiatives for 2024. We hope everyone will make the commitment to help others by participating in the Glacier Bank match to support Let’s Talk About It.”
Range Riders players Jack Lynch, Drew Sims, and Ty Penner are leading the charge for this campaign and will be signing posters at the gate. This event is designed to create a fun, supportive, and inclusive environment for everyone. By standing together, we can challenge the stigma and ensure no one has to suffer in silence.
For more information about the Let’s Talk About It campaign or to donate and support mental health services, visit logan.org/LetsTalk.