A state of emergency has been declared at the Ochapowace First Nation, following four people committing suicide in the last 3 months.

Other reserves have experienced the issue of suicide among youth, however in the case of Ochapowace, the issue is among men between 30 and 45 years old.

The reserve has implemented a 24/7 suicide prevention and depression line for those struggling, and the number is 639-205-7997.

Ochapowace is looking for more volunteers for the line as they head into the holidays.

A therapist will be there everyday from December 22nd to January 26.