The 'paradise paradox': The resort town of Whitefish seems perfect, yet its citizens still suffer

The ‘paradise paradox’: The resort town of Whitefish seems perfect, yet its citizens still suffer

BY: ELLA HALL - MARCH 10, 2024 10:08 AM

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Many of Whitefish’s nearly 9,000 residents work in the hospitality industry serving the millions of tourists that come through the area. Whitefish Lake, which sits near Stillwater State Forest, is just one of the many outdoor recreational attractions that draws so many visitors. (Photo by Jake LaHaie of Byline Magazine)

Forested hills, spotted with yellow bursts of larch trees, surround the town of Whitefish. The mountains just visible in the hazy distance are dusted with the first snow of the year. On a mid-October morning, the normally bustling tourist mecca is quiet–a fall respite between the summer and winter busy seasons.

Despite the seemingly idyllic nature of life in a mountain resort town like Whitefish, these communities often experience higher rates of mental health challenges and suicide than the national average. This phenomenon, referred to as the “paradise paradox,” is due to a complex interplay of factors such as isolation, difficulty accessing mental health care, unique social and financial stressors, high levels of substance use and transient support systems.

Outside Stumptown Snowboards on Central Avenue, a selection of boots and shoes are arranged sidewalk sale style, and a rack of summer clothing flutters in the breeze. Inside, the store is mostly empty. A couple idly browses the colorful Gortex jackets, but the fall air is not yet sharp enough to require layers. An employee sits cross-legged on the floor, sorting goggles and lenses. At the back of the shop, Kaden Kelly works behind the tune-up counter, although today there are no boards in need of work.

About this series
During February and March, the Daily Montanan is collaborating with students at the University of Montana to present the School of Journalism’s work on the topic of mental health in Montana. Each Sunday, the Daily Montanan will spotlight one of the stories that was featured in Byline magazine, which showcases the work of UM journalists and photojournalists. The entire series with complete photos can be found here.

Students in the University of Montana School of Journalism produce a magazine every other year as part of their capstone experience.

Please note that several of the stories contain potentially triggering material. Don’t be reluctant to seek help if you or someone you know is in danger. Call or text the mental health crisis line at 988 or reach out to local resources to get the help you need.

Wearing a trucker hat pushed down over brown curls and a black sweatshirt, Kelly is friendly and eager to talk. … “Mental health is a big challenge in our community and people are open to talking about it and trying to shed light on it,” Kelly said. “There’s a lot of folks who have good heads on their shoulders but are affected by mental health struggles.”

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