The South Dakota Department of Social Services (DSS) offers a variety of training opportunities, including virtual courses, designed to help identify, understand, and respond to signs of crisis.
“Knowing what to do and where to turn in a crisis is one of the most effective ways to prevent suicides in our communities,” said DSS Secretary Laurie Gill. “The South Dakota Department of Social Services offers a number of learning opportunities aimed at addressing mental health and suicide issues.”
Organizations and groups can request specific trainings in their communities either in person or some may be available virtually. DSS can also help cover costs associated with trainings if needed.
Available trainings include:
- Mental Health First Aid
- Youth Mental Health First Aid
- National Alliance on Mental Illness’ Ending the Silence
- Applied Suicide Intervention Skills Training
- Question, Persuade, Refer
- Question, Persuade, Refer, Treat
- Question, Persuade, Refer, Triage
- Counseling on Access to Lethal Means
- Means Restriction
- Safety Planning
“Preparing to help people in mental health crises or those considering suicide is critically important to creating stronger, more resilient families and communities,” Gill said. “We want to equip South Dakotans with tools and resources to save the lives of their family, friends, neighbors, and community members.”
To learn more, request a training, or view a calendar of upcoming trainings, visit click here.
If you need help with thoughts of suicide, please call 1.800.273.8255 or send a text to 741741. Help is available 24/7.
Visit SDSuicidePrevention.org and BeThe1SD.com to find resources and learn more on suicide prevention.
