There comes a time in our lives when we need to ask for help, whether that may be to complete some chores around the house or taking the children or grandparents to their appointments or activities. Maybe even needing someone to talk to and help you work through some hardships or obstacles. Whatever it may be, it’s okay to ask for help.

We are the people and the people are you.

Nuchus were self-governing and self-sustaining people who were connected both physically and spiritually to the world around us and we were also very knowledgeable about our own physical, emotional and mental state. In the past we had people who we could ask to help heal us and we had ceremonies to help balance and sync us back with the creator.

Those teachings and ceremonies are now scarce and, in some cases, aren’t practiced anymore. So how have we been keeping balance in our lives? Who have we been turning to for assistance and help? How have we adapted with modern day life and technology to meet our emotional and physical needs? Are these healthy solutions for the help we seek?

These are just a few questions some of you might have. The answers to these questions probably vary from person to person and family to family. One thing is for certain: as Nuchu, we have been through many things throughout history and one thing is for sure, we are resilient people! The old ones (Weenuchu) before us faced barriers and obstacles in their lives and they overcome them. We are living proof of this.

With that said, I hope this encourages you to ask for help if you need it. Let’s be there for one another, help one another, because many of us is stronger than just one of us.

Tough times happen and we are here for you. Please reach out.

Local Resources:

• Southern Ute Health Center: Behavior Health 69 Capote Drive, Ignacio, CO 970-563-4581. For local Native Americans. Call to schedule an appointment.
• Southern Ute Division of Social Services: 116 Capote Drive, Ignacio, CO 970-563-2331 for local Native Americans needing assistance with child welfare needs and family support.
• St Ignatius Catholic Church: Pastor Cesar Arras, 14826 CO-172, Ignacio, CO 970-563-4241.
• Ignacio Community Church: Pastor Randall Haynes 405 Browning Ave, Ignacio, CO (currently located inside ELHI) 970-759-3633
• Clarity Coaching and Counseling: Jessaca Cassady 970-903-3354 (Christian counseling services in Bayfield or Ignacio).
• Second Wind Fund of the Four Corners believes that every child and youth at risk of suicide should have access to the mental health treatment they need. We match children and youth at risk for suicide with licensed therapists in their communities, 720-962-0706.
• Women’s Resource Center creates personal, social and professional growth opportunities for all women in La Plata County, 970-247-1242.

State or National Resources- All are 24/7.

• Colorado Crisis Line: 844-493-8255 or Text “TALK” to 38255. You’ll immediately be put in contact with a trained counselor, ready to text with you about anything.
• Man Therapy is designed to help men deal with issues like depression, anxiety, anger and suicidal thoughts. ManTherapy.org
• NM Crisis Line for support and resources call 855-662-7474.
• The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline has both an online chat and 24/7 phone line at 1-800-273-8255 if you are thinking of suicide or need help for a loved one.
• The Trevor Project which seeks to serve LGBT youth, has a 24/7 suicide prevention line at 866-488-7386.
• Trans Lifeline hosts a unique program which offers peer counselors to transgender people thinking of suicide 877-565-8860.

We are the people and the people are you!

Want to help and be a part of the change? Looking for community members and youth to join the Community Board tasked to reduce youth substance usage, eliminate mental health stigma and start the discussion around suicide and prevention. Contact Precious Collins, Native Connections Program Coordinator for more information 970-563-2487.