The Department of Social Services and its partner The Helpline Center recently unveiled a powerful art installation at the Washington Pavilion, featuring 13,000 unique sticky notes. Each note represents a call, text, or chat received by South Dakota’s 988 Helpline in 2024, symbolizing lives touched by compassionate, professional support during moments of crisis.
“The Helpline Center is immensely proud of the success of the 988 phone number and our partnership with the Department of Social Services,” said Janet Kittams, chief executive officer at The Helpline Center. “Most importantly, the 13,000 sticky notes represent that 988 counselors at the Helpline Center were there when people needed help the most.”
The installation is adorned with positive affirmations inspired by DSS’s Division of Behavioral Health “Notes to Self” campaign. It aims to reduce stigmas around mental health and celebrate resilience. Launched in 2023, the “Notes to Self” campaign encourages open conversations about mental and behavioral health in South Dakota.
“The Notes to Self campaign uses real stories to inspire real people,” DSS Cabinet Secretary Matt Althoff said. “South Dakotans are able to see themselves in the stories and messages portrayed. If they are struggling, they see they are not alone. We hope the connection they feel will invite that struggling individual to reach out for help.” The Washington Pavilion art installation is open throughout May in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month. A kick-off reception was held earlier this week to help raise awareness and highlight 988’s vital role in South Dakota. The public is invited to view the display, learn its purpose, and join the movement to destigmatize behavioral health support.