By: Jazmine Muratalla

Ripon High School did an activity where students write down their deepest secrets. Some of the secrets went a little too far. With being said, everyone has problems. Everyone goes through so much that sometimes it results to their breaking point. They don’t know what to do, where to go, and don’t think straight. Most of the time, they feel alone and lost, but our Ripon Indians are here to help! Brianna Ramirez explains if she knew anyone going through something like this she would want to have a one-on-one conversation with them ASAP! She would also want to hear their side of the story before trying to put all the puzzle pieces back together again. After hearing their side of their story she would tell them what she believes and give them proper advice. Brianna’s advice is, “Seek adult help, don’t share your story with people you don’t trust, keep it on the d-line.” It’s interesting, because when people go through rough times they think if they say something, its all going to go downhill. What they don’t get is, if they keep quiet how is anyone suppose to help? Joel Chavez says, ” I would feel bad, everyone goes through rough times at some point of their lives. Not everyone could handle it as well.” The first thing that Joel would let the person know is, “Don’t dwell on what everyone has to say be strong.” New student, Miranda Dasilva, agrees with Joel. She would feel bad and would want to help them the best she can. Miranda would let that person know that if they need anyone to talk to she’s there and she’s only a phone call away. Her advice, “Keep your head up. Don’t think your alone because others go through the same.” Most of the time people go to a friend first, but that’s not always the smartest thing to do. Finding an adult would be smarter. Only because they’ve had more experience in life. Any teacher or staff member would a good resource.  For example, Senora Ramirez, would be concerned about their well-being and health. She would be there to help and provide moral support. The first thing Senora would do is to find a moment to talk to the person and let them know that she’s available to help them cope with their problems. Also, that there’s others (family & friends) who care and love them. Senora’s advice, “Talk about your feelings and concerns. Don’t keep your problems bottled up. It always makes people feel better when they talk about their feelings. Find someone who will listen!” If you are one of these people who are feeling troubled, you’re not alone! Talk to a staff member or a teacher; they’re here to help.