Jody Potts

Are you a Lifelong Alaskan?  What part of Alaska did you grow up in and what was it like growing up there?  

I was born and raised in Alaska but went to college in Arizona and lived around the world but came home to Alaska in 2009 because I wanted to raise my kids on their Indigenous lands.

At Careline, we want Alaskans to know that we are not only a suicide prevention hotline, that we are a someone-to-talk-to hotline as well.  We want Alaskans to reach out to us to talk whenever they need help or someone to talk to.  There are many barriers to reaching out, including many internal barriers.  What would you say to someone who needs help and someone to talk to but may not like the idea of reaching out to ask for help?

You have purpose and are valued and there are people who want to help.  Everyone struggles and needs help from time to time, don’t be ashamed, help is available, just keep fighting and never give up.  Even the strongest people struggle and need help at times.  You are not alone.  

Alaska can be a challenging place to live.  What are some coping strategies  that you have developed to cope and thrive in our unique Alaskan environment?

I get out on the land with my family which fills my heart and soul with joy and fulfillment.  I enjoy all kinds of outdoor activities.  Running for me was always my best go to way to cope and deal with stress.  

During a time of great uncertainty and turmoil and transition, what gives you hope right now? And what makes you proud?

Seeing Alaskans helping each other through the pandemic.  Youth rising and using their voice today also gives me hope.  Community unity, helping people and my children make me proud.  

During difficult times, is there a mantra or some sort of touchstone that you return to?  Something that gives you strength or offers perspective during challenging times?

I am my ancestor’s wildest dream.  

I am my ancestor’s wildest dream.  

J. Potts

No one deserves trauma, but many of us have experienced trauma in our lives.  The path to healing looks different and follows a different timeline for every one.  Would you feel comfortable sharing a story of healing or recovery from your own life?  

Actively working on healing and overcoming trauma has been some of the hardest but most rewarding work of my life.  Breaking the cycle within my own family has been the work I’ve been focused on doing.  

Actively working on healing and overcoming trauma has been some of the hardest but most rewarding work of my life.  Breaking the cycle within my own family has been the work I’ve been focused on doing.  

J. Potts

During times of acute stress and crisis – looking back on those times in your life, what advice would you give yourself.

This too shall pass.  These stressful moments aren’t forever.  Just breathe and stay focused.

Is there anything else you would like to add about hope & healing?

Never give up.