South Dakota residents should be able to hope for more than just “to make it.” Yet, the ripple effect stemming from financial insecurity seem to touch every aspect of a person’s life. From housing quality to healthcare, from grades in school to sleep disorders and constant stress, low-income families face a host of challenges that make many struggle to simply survive. Long-term solutions that center on compassion-based values need solid investments and partnerships from all sectors of non-profit, business, and government to change hope from surviving to thriving.

The isolation that comes with rural settings can be a complex barrier for victims of intimate partner violence seeking help. Lack of witnesses, intervention, transportation, and nearby services all contribute to the increased severity and frequency of violence experienced compared to more urban surroundings. The need is critical for communities to increase their focus on investing opening access to preventative services, including domestic violence intimate partner resources.

Mental health deserves to be treated just like other healthcare problems. And like all health care needs, people have a right to decent mental health care. Unfortunately, obstacles stand in the path to mental wellness. Stigma, lack of funding, and access to care are just some challenges we face in rural South Dakota. Mental healthcare for SD residents needs to be included in general health preventative circles of care. Covered by health plans and accessible to all people. Health care experts in all fields are teaming together to advocate for and normalize mental healthcare in South Dakota.

One of the most stigmatized illnesses, addiction can be heartbreaking and destructive when left untreated. Yet, the vast majority of individuals struggling with addiction never seek treatment services. Investments in strong, long-haul education campaigns focused on breaking the stigma surrounding addiction is critical for people who desperately need care but are fearful of the shame and rejection they may receive due to the ignorance regarding their disorder.

As South Dakota anticipates a rapid rise in older residents, communities must understand their role in responding to the needs of this growing demographic. New demands on already limited services and resources make caring for older citizens in our rural setting especially challenging. Issues such as housing, transportation, health services, and social connections will need creative ideas, collaborative planning, and strategic partnerships to find the best, most engaging solutions to scale up services for older adults.