For Immediate Release: September 9, 2024
DSS Media Contact: emily.richardt@state.sd.us or 605.773.3165 

September is Suicide Prevention Month in South Dakota

PIERRE-- Governor Kristi Noem has proclaimed September as Suicide Prevention Month in South Dakota. Changing the narrative from one of suffering to one of hope can help reduce stigma, encourage people to seek help, and ultimately save lives. This month, let us commit to challenging outdated beliefs and stigmas surrounding mental health and suicide.

“Suicide stems from deeply personal and complex circumstances, and yet it indiscriminately affects all persons. No matter our age, our race, or our socioeconomic background, all of us can be impacted by suicide,” said Department of Social Services (DSS) Cabinet Secretary Matt Althoff. “While suicide rates in South Dakota are declining, much work remains as we strive to make all individuals who are contemplating suicide aware of the resources that are available to them at that very moment when they view suicide as a solution to the challenges they face.”

Reducing the stigma around suicide is important for creating a supportive environment where people feel safe to seek help. Althoff urged on behalf of the Department, “Let’s challenge ourselves every day to think differently about suicide and mental health, to be part of the change that is so desperately needed so that persons who are struggling will feel more comfortable asking for help.” 

Here are some strategies to help South Dakota achieve the supportive environment Governor Noem’s proclamation is aimed at creating:

Promote Open Conversations

Encourage open discussions about mental health and suicide without judgment. Normalize conversations around these topics to make them more common.

Use Non-Stigmatizing Language

Avoid phrases like "committed suicide," which carries connotations of crime or sin. Instead, use "died by suicide" to promote compassion and understanding.

Highlight Stories of Hope and Recovery

Sharing stories of people who have struggled with suicidal thoughts but found help and healing can reduce shame and offer hope to those who are struggling.

Challenge Stereotypes

Correct misconceptions about who is at risk of suicide. Suicide affects people of all demographics, and addressing these stereotypes can prevent marginalization and isolation.

“Traditional views of suicide often focus on shame, which prevents people from seeking support,” said Chief of Behavioral Health Tiffany Wolfgang. “Changing those views and shifting those conversations will foster an environment where people feel safe to talk about their mental health without fear of being judged.”

If you or someone you know needs help with thoughts of suicide, please call, text, or chat 988 for free and confidential support available anytime, day or night, seven days a week.

Additional Resources:
South Dakota Suicide Prevention: SDSuicidePrevention.org  

The Helpline Center: HelplineCenter.org
“Notes to Self” campaign: SDBehavioralHealth.gov  

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The South Dakota Department of Social Services is dedicated to strengthening families to foster health, wellbeing, and independence. For more information, please visit dss.sd.gov.