Suicide Prevention Program Seeks To Make Difference
Officials from the Fort Peck Tribal Health’s Suicide Prevention program want people to not be afraid to address the problem that is being felt by families throughout the reservation.
“We want to get out to all the communities and promote our program,” Stacey Summers, new director of the program, said. “We want to give a positive message. You matter, you’re loved.”
Nadine Adams of the program added, “We consider ourselves in crisis mode.”
Officials explain that since December, seven enrolled members have committed suicide.
“We’re trying to step up for suicide awareness,” Adams said. “We’re trying to hit every town with an event on the reservation.”
Summers explained there have been at least six suicidal attempts since May 9.
“I will do anything I can do to help with crisis and prevention. You really need to have a good heart and caring heart,” Summers said. “What really upsets me is the younger kids.”
In an attempt to reach out to young people, the program is bringing Issac Fisher’s Dream Big Basketball Academy and Dunk Show to the area this weekend. The camp is scheduled for June 5-7 at Poplar High School. The dunk show is planned for 6:30 p.m. on Saturday, June 6, at Poplar High School.
“He will give a positive message,” Summers explained.
If you are having suicidal thoughts or know of someone struggling, call 406-653-2000 or 406-768-2000. The program is located at 226 Benton St. Program
“We’re here to listen,” Summers said. “They are welcome to come here as well. We want them to be safe and come here in confidence.”
Other staff members include Myron Menz, Blake Lambert, Punkie Jackson, Elise Akers and Bree Jackson.
Activities being planned for the summer include attending pow wows in Brockton and Poplar. A ND42 basketball camp is also being discussed. The camps connect mind and body through a person’s own experiences, struggles and successes.
Goals include establishing
mental health telehealth help, hiring a transportation consultant and finding a suicide prevention outreach youth coordinator.
Summers said it’s important for Fort Peck to be able to work with the Monovo Mental Health Monitoring and Support program.
