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SIOUX FALLS - The Department of Social Services (DSS) and The Helpline Center have partnered with South Dakota businesses and organizations to install 988 signs at outdoor areas to bring awareness to the crisis lifeline.
A total of 112 permanent aluminum signs in eight South Dakota communities have or soon will be installed. The signs urge South Dakotans to call, text or chat 988 if they need support. 988 connects people directly with professionals at the Helpline Center who can help individuals cope with mental health, substance abuse or thoughts of self harm. 988 is available 24/7 and is confidential.
“988 is a resource that saves lives,” DSS Cabinet Secretary Matt Althoff said. “And so we make it our mission to make 988 universally known so that this resource is thought about and used when it is needed.”
The signs have been placed at businesses, shopping malls, universities and schools, and organizations throughout the state. Participation came at no cost. The signs were installed on permanent outdoor fixtures.
“The installation of the signs will provide a constant reminder that support is available 24/7 for mental health, substance use, or suicide-related concerns,” said Janet Kittams, Chief Executive Officer at The Helpline Center. “This is critical for people to have 988 at their fingertips when they need it the most.”
An estimated 149,000 adults in South Dakota live with a mental health condition and 1 in 9 adolescents ages 12-17 experience serious thoughts of suicide each year. In 2024, suicide was the 10th leading cause of death statewide and the leading cause of death for South Dakotans ages 20-39. Additionally, 94 overdose deaths were reported in 2024.
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About DSS and DBH
DSS is dedicated to strengthening families to foster health, wellbeing, and independence. For more information, please visit dss.sd.gov. The Division of Behavioral Health, part of DSS, works to promote access to mental health and substance use services, reduce stigma, and support South Dakotans in crisis.
About the Helpline Center
The Helpline Center connects individuals to resources and support, including the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, empowering South Dakotans to navigate life’s challenges.