MINOT, ND (KXNET) — First responders and health professionals were getting educated on Monday on preventing veteran suicides. Minot State University hosted a Rural Veteran Suicide Prevention Summit with the group Together With Veterans. The summit is split up into different sessions throughout the day and tackles issues such as how military culture is different from civilian life. As well as the many different mental health and substance abuse issues that veterans can face when transitioning out of the military. Minot Board President of Together With Veterans says the summit isn't meant to be your average training session. 5 things that are shortening the lifespan of dogs "We're not doing the traditional suicide prevention training. It's more of the how and why they might get to that mindset of having suicidal ideations, so whatever little money we spend here, it's still way cheaper than a funeral, and if we can save one life then mission accomplished," said Max Pontenila, the Minot board president of Together With Veterans. The summit also had guest speakers from a variety of different veteran groups including the Fargo Veterans Association and ND Cares, as well as the Mayor of Minot Tom Ross. Minot State professor Vicki Michels says the summit is about helping those who need it. "It means helping our community and helping people who have done a lot to serve our country, to help them to transition, to feel like their lives have meaning, and obviously to prevent and save lives," said Michel. If you or someone you know is aware of a veteran in crisis click here. Close Thanks for signing up! Watch for us in your inbox. Subscribe Now Today's Top Stories SIGN UP NOW