News

February marks American Heart Month, a time to raise awareness about heart disease and its prevention according to North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS).

In 2023, heart disease remained the leading cause of death in North Dakota. That same year, 31.1% of adults in the state reported being told by a health care provider that they had high blood pressure. Both high blood pressure and high cholesterol are major risk factors for heart disease but often go unnoticed or are not properly managed.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) announces the opening of Bridges to Recovery, a new residential treatment program in Jamestown that provides a safe, supportive place for individuals to focus on their recovery. Operated by South Central Human Service Center, Bridges to Recovery is a clinically managed, high-intensity residential program designed to provide a structured, 24-hour therapeutic environment. The program offers round-the-clock care, therapy, and essential behavioral health services to help people build a strong foundation for wellness and long-term success.

February is nationally designated as Children’s Dental Health Month. In observance, North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) joins dental professionals, health care providers, educators and other partners in promoting good oral health to children, their parents and caregivers, teachers and others.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) announced that its South Central Human Service Center (SCHSC) and regional vocational rehabilitation office in Jamestown have closed temporarily today, Monday, Feb. 10, due to a water main break.   

Health-related professions are among the fastest growing and personally rewarding career fields. North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is working to recruit and retain health care providers in the state, especially in underserved and rural areas, by offering student loan repayment help for qualifying health, behavioral health and dental professionals.

Every 4.5 minutes, a baby is born with a major birth defect in the U.S. according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Birth defects include structural changes and disorders present at birth. They are common, costly and can affect any family. They also range from mild to serious and include critical conditions that can cause lifelong health challenges affecting almost any part of the body, such as the heart, brain or limbs.

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) today announced that funding assistance is now available to help with the legal costs of gaining guardianship as a kinship caregiver.

BISMARCK, N.D. – North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) offices in Fargo and Jamestown and its outreach office in Valley City will close early at 3 p.m. CDT today, Dec. 19 due weather-related road conditions.  

WEATHER-RELATED ANNOUNCEMENT: 6:50 a.m. CT Update  

North Dakota Health and Human Services’ (HHS) offices in Devils Lake, Grand Forks, Jamestown, Minot and Williston and three outreach offices in Grafton, Rolla and Valley City will delay opening until 10 a.m. CT today, Dec. 19 due to hazardous weather and travel conditions. HHS offices in Bismarck, Dickinson and Fargo will operate normal business hours. Details appear below. 

IMPORTANT: People experiencing a behavioral health crisis should call the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for immediate help. 

North Dakota Health and Human Services (HHS) is emphasizing the critical importance of suicide prevention and mental health awareness during the holiday season. While the holidays can bring joy and togetherness, they can also heighten stress, loneliness, or despair for many individuals. Recognizing the warning signs of suicide and taking action to help yourself or others can save a life.