New signs spread message of help available at 988

PIERRE, SD (KELO.com) — Signs that can saves lives are spreading across South Dakota.  The Department of Social Services and The Helpline Center are partnering with businesses and organizations to install 988 signs.  The signs urge people to call 988 if they’re dealing with mental health issues, substance abuse or thoughts of self harm.  An estimated 149-thousand adults in South Dakota deal with mental health conditions.  One in nine adolescents experience serious thoughts of suicide each year.