By Christina Lakish.
People almost never want to see Emergency Medical Technicians (EMTs), but here’s a great reason to connect with local first responders:
The Baca Grande Ambulance Department is hosting two Mental Health and Wellness Fairs, one April 18 at the Crestone Charter School in the Rainbow Hall, and the other April 25 at Moffat School in the gym. Both run from 6-8 p.m.
The Baca Grande Ambulance Department has seen an increase in mental health emergencies in the Crestone/Baca Grande area in the last few years. These occur in people of all ages and from all walks of life. This is far from unique to this area. Nationwide, people are suffering at an increasing rate.
The Baca Grande Ambulance Department is determined to do more to serve the community’s mental health and wellness needs than just emergency response in times of crisis, although they are always ready and willing whenever they get the call.
It is important to realize that mental health affects everyone and can be negatively impacted by difficult life events.
Whether it is from the loss of a loved one, financial stress, insecurity about the future, past trauma, sexual or domestic violence, substance use disorders (SUDs), or long-term mental health issues, everyone deserves help when they are struggling. If you are going through any of these, you are not alone and you don’t have to go through it alone.
Mental illness and SUDs don’t just affect the individual suffering; they affect family, friends, and everyone around them. It is not easy to watch a loved one struggling, and for them, it can be isolating and overwhelming. The Mental Health and Wellness Fairs are for those struggling with mental health issues and also for their loved ones, friends, and family. There are resources for these people, too. There is help.
Representatives from local mental health organizations will be sharing what programs, resources, and financial aid are available in the San Luis Valley. Information will be available to everyone to take home and share with others.
These events are open to people of all ages and are not just for people going through mental health struggles. Ongoing mental wellness is just as important as physical health and wellness, and the two are often correlated. Poor mental health can, and often does, lead to physical manifestations. Information and resources for maintaining mental wellness can perhaps make one feel a little bit brighter than before.
The Baca Grande Ambulance Department would also like to remind and reassure community members that they are dedicated to the safety and wellbeing of patients, first and foremost, regardless of the nature of the call or the circumstances.
They are here solely to help. They come to all emergencies, including those of mental health, from a place of compassion, support, and service.
The Baca Grande Ambulance Department extends their deepest gratitude to the Crestone Charter School and Moffat School for their support and their facilities to make these events possible.
The First Responders of the Baca Grande hope to see the Baca/Crestone community come together to improve mental health and wellness for everyone.
Who to call
For all emergencies call 911
Suicide and Crisis Hotline call 988
Colorado Crisis Services 844-493-TALK (8255)