Multiple Minot State University departments are sponsoring The Green Bandana Project, a campus-based initiative designed to spread awareness of resources for those with mental illness, according to information provided by MSU.

MSU’s Green Bandana Project is primarily supported by the MSU Student Athlete Advisory Council (SAAC), MSU Life, and the Minot State Residence Hall Association, with additional support from various departments and clubs across the campus. The Bandana Project started at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and is now on 42 campuses across the United States and Australia.

“Our hope is to get people talking about mental health and show students on campus we support them, are willing to talk with them, and help them get help if they need it,” said Abby Graves, MSU Residence Life coordinator. “Students, faculty, and staff can fill out the form, which has the pledge. Once completed, bandana and resource cards can be picked up from the housing office, the wellness center, or the student ID office to proudly display on their backpacks, purses, office door or where ever works for them.”

Individuals with the lime green bandanas on their backpack, bag, purse, or office door are showing a sign of stigma-free, quiet solidarity. This also indicates they are safe to approach with mental health-related issues and know where resources are, such as MSU Student Health and Counseling Services and MSU Lutheran Campus Ministries.