News

In recognition of National Suicide Prevention Month this September, North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is encouraging awareness of resources and key actions to take to save lives. North Dakota, Gov. Doug Burgum’s proclamation of September as Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in North Dakota states, “suicide prevention is important year-round, promoting compassion, learning, and sharing resources during this month can help raise awareness about suicide prevention, reduce stigma and promote positive mental health as essential components to saving lives. Effective suicide prevention requires collaboration among multiple state and non-state agencies, organizations as well as individual volunteers and suicide survivors.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) strives to maintain the highest standards of transparency and accountability and prioritizes continuous improvement.

HHS recently underwent the biennial federal funds audit for the two-year period beginning July 1, 2021, through June 30, 2023. Over the past year, HHS practices and procedures have been implemented to address the findings identified at that time.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced the 2024 – 2025 Business Plan, the first-ever produced since the Department of Health and Department of Human Services unified nearly two years ago.

The comprehensive plan highlights 74 projects that support the HHS vision that North Dakota can be the healthiest state in the nation.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is accepting public comment on an amendment to the state’s Medicaid 1915(c) waiver for home and community-based services (HCBS). The waiver pays for a variety HCBS that allow individuals who otherwise qualify for nursing home care to remain living in their homes and communities.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) celebrates National Recovery Month this September, as proclaimed by Gov. Doug Burgum. This month, HHS’s Behavioral Health Division aims to raise awareness about programs and services that support people in recovery, celebrate North Dakotans and their family members in recovery, and recognize the dedicated individuals who provide the prevention, treatment, and recovery support services that make recovery possible.

International Overdose Awareness Day is observed on Aug. 31. As North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) continues its effort to enhance services and supports it will commemorate this day by remembering those lost due to drug overdoses and recognizes the grief of their family members and friends. HHS is dedicated to raising awareness about the impact of drug overdoses and the available prevention resources that can help save lives in North Dakota.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is pleased to announce the continuation of the Behavioral Health School Grant program for the 2024 -2025 school year. This program is funded through an appropriation of $9.5 million from the 2023 legislative session. Applications for this school year can be submitted now through March 31, 2025, with funds expiring June 30, 2025. 

The transition from summer vacation to getting back into a routine and returning to school can be challenging for some children and families. It’s a mixture of emotions, new schedules, transitions and a lot of unknowns.

Employers in North Dakota know the challenges their workforce faces regarding access to quality, affordable child care. The North Dakota Employer Toolkit for Supporting Working Parents is now available as a quick, easy guide focused on resources and programs employers can support to help working parents.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) recommends some back-to-school health and well-being practices to support strong, stable families and vibrant communities.