Mental Health Memo Contributors

Jordan Mounga – Program Manager, Suicide Prevention & Crisis Services- DBH

Kassy Dunn – Juvenile Services Program Manager- DBH

Youth Suicide Prevention

As the new school year approaches, many adolescents and young adults are gearing up for the transition back to the classroom. For most, this time of year brings excitement, new opportunities, and the chance to reconnect with friends. For some, it may come with stress, anxiety, or uncertainty.

Back-to-School Stress: What to Watch For

The start of a new school year can introduce a variety of challenges, including academic expectations, peer pressure, social anxiety, bullying, and adjusting to new routines. Worries about grades, homework, extracurricular activities, or fitting in with peers may contribute to increased stress.

Parents, caregivers, educators, and community members play a critical role in recognizing when a young person may need support. Common signs of stress include:

• Withdrawing from friends, family, or activities they usually enjoy
• Changes in sleeping or eating habits
• Frequent headaches, stomachaches, or other physical complaints
• Increased irritability, sadness, or noticeable changes in mood or behavior

In 2023, 17.1% of South Dakota high school students considered suicide, while 8.4% stated they had attempted (Youth Risk Behavior Survey- SD DOH). There may be several contributing factors that may increase a young person’s risk for poor mental health or suicidal thoughts, including recent loss, alcohol or other substance use, lack of social support, mental health stigma, and bullying.

How to Support Youth This School Year

If you notice any signs of back‑to‑school stress, please visit SD Behavioral Health to learn more about available resources, treatment locations, and ways to support youth mental health. Sadly, in 2024, suicide was the second leading cause of death among South Dakota youth ages 10–19. Additional resources for parents and caregivers are available at South Dakota Suicide Prevention.

Reducing suicide risk can include:

• Building supportive, strong relationships
• Encouraging involvement in group activities and positive school experiences
• Supporting good coping and problem‑solving skills
• Safely storing firearms and medications in the home
• Ensuring access to mental health care

If You Need Help
If you or someone you know is experiencing emotional distress, a suicide crisis, or issues related to substance use, you can call, text, or chat 988—available 24/7.

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