A Week of Reflection and Progress
As we stand a week removed from the conclusion of the 2023 National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness, IHR Magazine takes a moment to reflect on the significant strides made during this pivotal gathering in Ottawa. Indigenous leaders, community advocates, and government officials came together to forge new paths in addressing the mental health challenges faced by Indigenous communities across Canada.
Government Commitment and Indigenous Leadership
Ministers Engage in Meaningful Dialogue
The Summit, which took place last week, was graced by the presence of the Minister of Indigenous Services, Patty Hajdu, and the Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health, Ya’ara Saks. Their participation underscored the Government of Canada’s dedication to supporting Indigenous-led mental wellness initiatives.
Embracing Traditional Practices and Distinctions-Based Approaches
The Government of Canada has been clear in its recognition of the importance of distinctions-based, Indigenous-led approaches to mental wellness. Since 2018, there has been a concerted effort to adapt programs to incorporate traditional Indigenous healing practices, acknowledging the deep-seated impacts of colonization and social inequities.
Summit Highlights and Innovations
Prioritizing Crisis Support and Youth
Over two days, the Summit focused on crisis support for communities and the mental wellness of Indigenous youth and children. Workshops and sessions delved into gender-based initiatives, support for the mental wellness workforce, land-based approaches, and youth mental wellness.
Showcasing Community Strength and Youth Initiatives
The event highlighted a plethora of youth-led projects and community-based initiatives, showcasing the resilience and innovation present across the nation. Notable were the programs tailored for 2SLGBTQIA+ Indigenous youth, on-the-land programming, and virtual support systems.
Voices of Leadership
Minister Patty Hajdu on Holistic Connections
“For centuries, Indigenous Peoples have known that wellness and health depended on holistic connections and relationships with each other, and with culture. Western systems of care have often not worked to bring relief and healing for Indigenous Peoples, leading to great suffering, loss and difficult cycles of hope followed by despair. Bringing Indigenous Peoples together to share the approaches to healing is powerful and necessary to see stronger people and communities.”
Minister Ya’ara Saks on Partnership and Support
“Intergenerational trauma, the effects of colonization, the residential school system, the Sixties Scoop, poverty and many other factors contribute to Indigenous peoples having experienced higher rates of mental health and substance use issues. During this summit, we had the opportunity to hear from Indigenous organizations who have been doing incredible work, with their culturally safe approaches to mental well-being, including land-based approaches to treatment and healing. We are committed to working in partnership with them, Indigenous leaders, communities and others, to promote compassionate approaches to mental wellness that put people first.”
Quick Facts and Governmental Support
Strategic Frameworks and Investments
Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) aligns its work with key documents developed by Indigenous partners, such as The First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework and The National Inuit Suicide Prevention Strategy. The government’s financial commitment has been substantial, with ISC doubling its spending to support Indigenous mental wellness since 2015, reaching approximately $650 million in 2023-24.
Looking Ahead
As the dust settles on the 2023 National Summit on Indigenous Mental Wellness, the path forward is illuminated by the shared knowledge and collaborative spirit demonstrated during this event. IHR Magazine remains committed to reporting on these essential developments, as we collectively work towards a future where mental wellness is accessible and culturally resonant for all Indigenous Peoples.
