Mental Health Awareness Month logo.
SIOUX FALLS, S.D. (KELO.COM) – Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed May as Mental Health Awareness Month in South Dakota. It is a time to raise awareness of those living with mental health challenges, reduce stigma, and promote the resources available to help. “Mental health affects all of us whether we are doing well, facing struggles, or somewhere in between,” said Department of Social Services (DSS) Cabinet Secretary Laurie Gill. “Our mental health impacts our physical, emotional, and social wellbeing regardless of age.”
Twenty-nine percent of adults in South Dakota reported symptoms of anxiety or depression in early 2021 and 112,000 adults were dealing with a mental health condition. South Dakotans who received publicly funded mental health services reported increases in their social connectedness, mental health, and wellbeing. In 2021, 81% of surveyed clients agreed that they received positive outcomes from their treatment. You can find that data along with other useful information here.
DSS contracts with 11 Community Mental Health Centers across the state to provide mental health services to children adults with mental health challenges. If locality is a barrier, services can be provided via telehealth. Mental health services are also offered to offenders incarcerated in state correctional facilities. Individuals in need of inpatient psychiatric treatment can receive services at Human Services Center in Yankton, the only state licensed specialty hospital.
Financial help is available if cost is a concern. The Behavioral Health Voucher Program offers funding assistance for behavioral health services for farmers and ranchers, people impacted by the natural disasters of 2019 and/or the COVID-19 pandemic. To learn more about resource options, visit dss.sd.gov and click on the Behavioral Health tab. You can also visit www.605strong.com or dial 211 to reach the 211 Helpline Center. All calls are completely confidential.
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