Supporting Wellbeing (SWB) delivered a free, week-long training in partnership with the Tłı̨chǫ Government (TG) this February. The Department of Healing and Community Wellness invited participants from all four Tłı̨chǫ communities to gather and learn how to support others’ mental health on the land.

The training was held at the Johnny Nitsiza Cultural Centre in Whatì. It was led by Supporting Wellbeing facilitators, Wendy Lahey and Cole Hardisty. Elder Mike Nitsiza joined the group for the week as emotional support, with assistance by Jonah Gordon. All eleven of the participants had previously worked for TG on-the-land camps, and shared a rich knowledge of their territory throughout the week.

Wendy and Cole drove out to Whatì from Yellowknife, enjoying the beautiful scenery on the way, and a comforting caribou stew once they arrived at their hotel. Speaking of food — the cooks served the group tasty snacks, lunches, and dinners all week. The TG staff took great care of everyone and never let the coffee run low!

Although most of the training took place in town, the group spent Tuesday and Thursday afternoons out on Wha Ti (Lac La Martre, or Marten Lake). On Tuesday, the group snowmobiled out to the cabins of the Whatì Healing Camp, then set a fish net in the lake. Everyone took turns drilling a hole in the ice, and feeding the jigger through with expert tugs at the rope. The net was finally set after the fog from the ice was cleared away, and the jigger could be seen from above.

On Thursday, the group pulled the fish net, collecting about a dozen fish. The net had been pulled the day before by other staff, pulling in around 20 fish. After the fish were retrieved, everyone headed back to the healing camp cabin to cook fish over the outdoor grill. There is nothing like fresh, salted whitefish in a warm, cozy cabin! On-the-land activities are essential to SWB training, and solidify the material that is learned. Masìcho to TG for organizing them, and for keeping us safe!

It will help me lots, knowing that there are a lot of ways to help and understand the situation.” – Participant

Back at the cultural centre, the week wrapped up on Friday after spending 5 days together. The participants engaged in all 6 modules of material, working through each activity together. They enjoyed watching scenarios that Wendy and Cole acted out, and identifying the concepts from the modules, especially Conflict Resolution and Communication Skills.

Before everyone parted ways to travel home, the group gathered around the fire to say some parting words, led by Mike Nitsiza. The circle included drumming and ceremony, ending the session on a heartfelt note. Thanks to Tłı̨chǫ Government for hosting us, and to the participants and staff for all of their hard work. Masìcho!

Interested in having Supporting Wellbeing training in your community? Click here to request a training.