The South Dakota Helpline Center has been providing resources and support for individuals in South Dakota for many years and recently expanded their services to meet the needs of those who have lost someone to suicide. The Helpline Center recently developed and launched a website to support those who have lost a loved one to suicide.
Each year in the United States, over 48,000 people die by suicide, leaving behind family members and friends who have to cope with the loss. The new website is designed to provide help and hope to suicide loss survivors.
The site features a guide, Healing After a Suicide Loss, to help those who have lost someone to suicide or those who would like to support someone who has lost someone to suicide. An ‘In Remembrance’ page is available for people to honor their loved ones who have died by suicide with a picture and a message. The website highlights the Surviving After Suicide Class and monthly support groups, including a new virtual support group.
The Helpline Centers’ expansion of services is a testament to their commitment to supporting individuals and families in South Dakota who are dealing with the aftermath of suicide. The new website is a welcome addition to their existing support programs and resources, and provides another channel for those in need of support and guidance to find the help they need.
As part of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline network of crisis centers, the Helpline Center provides a connecting point for South Dakotans 24/7 who are experiencing thoughts of suicide, a mental health or substance use crisis or any other kind of emotional distress. The Helpline Center is accessible through a three-digit number, 988. When someone calls, chats or texts 988, they will be connected to a trained crisis specialist.