In this powerful episode of Voices of the Valley, Ford Fontaine, a local youth, opens up about their personal journey with mental health struggles growing up in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Ford shares the reality of looking like everything is fine on the outside while silently battling more than anyone knew on the inside. Through raw and honest conversation, we explore the gap between how life appears and how it really feels, and why finding support matters more than we realize. This episode also features REPS (Reaching Everyone Preventing Suicide) as our highlighted community resource, sharing information on where to turn when you or someone you love needs help.

If you’ve ever felt alone, unseen, or like you’re not enough, this episode is for you.

REPS-Reaching Everyone Preventing Suicide: REPS is right here in Steamboat Springs and is an amazing local support system. If you’re ready to talk to someone, REPS offers 5 free therapy sessions. You don’t have to be suicidal to reach out to REPS. They’re here to support anyone struggling with mental health, no matter what you’re going through.

Steps:

1. Go to yampavalleyreps.org
2. Click on Counseling and Therapy
3. Scroll down and click on New Client Intake Form
4. If you’re 12 or older, you can sign up yourself-you don’t need a parent’s permission

If you need guidance or a referral, you can call reps at (970)-846-8182 or email them at info@yampavalleyreps.org.

If someone is in immediate danger-like they’re trying to hurt themselves right now, have taken something harmful, or are unconscious, call 911 right away. This is an emergency, and you need help from first responders who can come to the scene quickly.

If someone is struggling with suicidal thoughts, mental health challenges, or just feeling overwhelmed, but isn’t in immediate danger, you can call or text 988, the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Trained counselors are available 24/7 to listen, support, and help connect you to resources.

Remember: If you’re ever unsure, it’s always better to call 911 when a life is at risk.

Phone numbers to put in your phone:

• Suicide and crisis line 24/7- 988 (call or text)

• Yampa Valley REPS- This is not a crisis line (970)-846-8182