June 21st is National Indigenous Peoples Day, an event where we come together to celebrate Indigenous communities in Canada. This day is an opportunity to learn more about the history and stories of Indigenous people. Today, we are spotlighting the stories and groundbreaking work of Indigenous youth who are combating mental health stigma in Indigenous communities. We are also sharing accessible mental wellness resources to support Indigenous people and work toward creating a safe, uplifting, and supportive environment for all.
Indigenous people living in Canada experience mental health issues at higher rates than non-Indigenous people, with suicide rates being three times higher among First Nations, two times higher among Métis, and nine times higher among Inuit peoples. Indigenous youth are also at an increased risk of suicide, and accessible resources are vital to address this crisis. The legacy of colonialism, forced assimilation, and cultural suppression has led to intergenerational trauma, perpetuating cycles of pain and suffering. In many communities across Canada, there is a lack of culturally sensitive support and resources that are available to Indigenous individuals, and this contributes to mental health disparities.
In addition to the lasting impact of colonization and a lack of culturally sensitive support, stigma surrounding mental health issues can be a major barrier to seeking support in Indigenous communities. The fear of being negatively judged and labeled can prevent individuals from confiding in others and getting the help they need. However, by sharing their stories and experiences, Indigenous youth are breaking down stigma and inspiring others to do the same. Stigma-Free Mental Health has partnered with Indigenous mental health organizations to bring awareness to their resources and support them in breaking the stigma in Indigenous communities.
Indigenous Mental Health Resources
Our Rural Mental Wellness Toolkit features an Indigenous Highlight section that showcases accessible resources created by Indigenous organizations, including the youth-led organization We Matter. We Matter provides diverse mental health toolkits created for Indigenous peoples, by Indigenous peoples. The Indigenous Highlight section also features Inspiring Stories where Indigenous youth share their mental health journeys. These resources are helpful for Indigenous rural residents, as well as support workers, teachers, and parents/guardians who are looking for mental health resources to share with Indigenous youth. Through our Toolkit, you will also gain access to the Nation Health Authority’s Hope, Help, and Healing Toolkit. If these resources would be useful for yourself or someone you know, or you’d like to learn more about We Matter and the lived experiences of Indigenous youth, we invite you to visit our Indigenous Highlight section.
At Stigma-Free Mental Health, we aim to bring diverse mental health education to
By amplifying Indigenous voices and raising awareness about accessible resources, we can work together to create a more supportive environment where Indigenous individuals feel empowered to discuss their mental health and receive support when they need it. Let’s continue to listen, learn, and highlight the work of Indigenous people, paving the way toward a future where mental wellness is supported and stigma can be dismantled.
References
Suicide among First Nations people, Métis and Inuit (2011-2016): Findings from the 2011 Canadian Census Health and Environment Cohort (CanCHEC). (2019, June 28).
By: Monique Zizzo
