The Department of Social Services wants South Dakotans to know there is help available for those dealing with mental health challenges.
According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness, one in five adults in the United States experiences mental illness each year.
State DSS Secretary Laurie Gill says mental health is treatable and is vital to a person’s overall health and well-being. She says signs to watch for are:
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Feeling very sad or withdrawn for more than two weeks.
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Trying to harm or end one’s life or making plans to do so.
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Sudden overwhelming fear for no reason.
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Significant weight loss or gain.
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Seeing, hearing or believing things that aren’t real.
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Excessive use of alcohol or drugs.
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Drastic changes in mood, behavior, personality, or sleeping habits.
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Extreme difficulty concentrating or staying still.
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Intense worries or fears that get in the way of daily activities.
Crisis counseling services in South Dakota are available 24 hours per day, 7 days a week. Services are available to anyone and all calls are completely confidential by dialing 1-800-273-8255 or text CONNECT to 741741. Additional resources are also available by visiting 605Strong.com or calling 211.
DSS contracts with 11 accredited community mental health centers across the state to provide services to both adults and youth. Services provided include:
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screenings and assessments,
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specialized outpatient services,
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individual therapy,
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group therapy and
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crisis intervention.
Funding assistance may be available. To find a service provider in your area, please visit dss.sd.gov/behavioralhealth/agencycounty.
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