September is National Suicide Prevention Month
September is widely recognized as National Suicide Prevention Month. The State of South Dakota offers resources to support mental health, and in particular student mental health. Below is a short list of select resources.
988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline
988 is the national three-digit phone number for all mental health, substance use, and suicide crises. In South Dakota, 988 calls are routed to the Helpline Center (formerly known as the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline). 988 offers 24/7 access to trained crisis specialists. Get more information on 988 services.
Prevention Resource Centers
South Dakota's Prevention Resource Centers (PRCs) are regionally located and serve students, parents, educators, community groups, and others looking for substance use prevention resource materials and support. The PRCs can provide school-based prevention programming.
Mental Health Poster Campaign
The Department of Education provides sign holders and posters with positive mental health messaging for school district use. The posters are appropriate for middle and high school students. DOE provides sign holders and regularly updates poster designs. Schools print posters according to their needs.
Safe2Say South Dakota
Safe2Say South Dakota is a statewide tip line that allows students, school staff, and community members to safely and anonymously report sensitive information that concerns their safety or the safety of others, including mental health concerns.
Training
The National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) offers a 50-minute program called “Ending the Silence,” which is appropriate for middle and high school students. In the presentation, a young adult living with a mental illness tells their story about mental health challenges, including what hurt and what helped, and how they are living in recovery. A lead presenter also shares information that helps students understand mental health conditions and warning signs, as well as how to talk to caring adults to get help for themselves and their friends. Complete this form to request an Ending the Silence training at your school. Questions? Contact the Department of Social Services' Division of Behavioral Health, 605-367-5236.
“Youth Mental Health First Aid” (YMHFA) is an eight-hour program designed for adults who regularly interact with adolescents (teachers, administrators, coaches). It introduces participants to the risk factors and warning signs of mental health problems in adolescents; builds understanding of the importance of early intervention; and teaches individuals how to help an adolescent in crisis or experiencing a mental health challenge. YMHFA meets the suicide awareness and prevention training requirement for educator certification. Complete this form to request a Youth Mental Health First Aid training for your school. Questions? Contact the Department of Social Services’ Division of Behavioral Health, 605-367-5236.
Visit the Department of Education's Educator Resources for Mental Health webpage to understand the full array of materials and supports available. Additionally, sdsuicideprevention.org provides a wealth of information, resources, and tools on the topic of mental health.