Sparks of Light, Sparks of Life: Indigenous Knowledge Sharing on Life Promotion and Mental Wellness

This article examines Indigenous mental health in Canada, focusing on life promotion among First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. It underscores the urgency of addressing Indigenous mental wellness challenges, particularly in suicide prevention. The study centers on the role of frontline workers in managi...

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Bibliographic Details
Published inInternational Journal of Indigenous Health Vol. 20; no. 1; pp. 1 - 18
Main Authors Ansloos, Jeffrey, Peltier, Shanna, Restoule, Brenda, Linklater, Renee
Format Journal Article
LanguageEnglish
Published Victoria Aboriginal Health Research Networks Secretariat (AHRNetS) 01.01.2024
Subjects
Canadian literature
Indigenous knowledge
Indigenous peoples
Inuit
Knowledge sharing
Medical research
Mental disorders
Mental health
Native North Americans
Native studies
Population
Prevention
Qualitative research
Suicidal ideation
Suicide
Suicides & suicide attempts
Wellness
Canada
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Summary:This article examines Indigenous mental health in Canada, focusing on life promotion among First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. It underscores the urgency of addressing Indigenous mental wellness challenges, particularly in suicide prevention. The study centers on the role of frontline workers in managing mental health and suicidal distress in these communities, and their work to promote life and mental wellness. Through a synthesis of psychological, critical, and Indigenous perspectives, the article reviews Canadian literature on Indigenous mental health and suicide prevention. The article then highlights reflexive insights derived from a knowledge-sharing event with 33 Indigenous mental health professionals, focusing on the unique challenges and opportunities in this field and the importance of life-affirming dialogues in suicide prevention. The article aims to integrate these insights into broader discussions on Indigenous mental wellness, health, and life promotion systems, proposing enhanced wellness and suicide prevention strategies tailored to the needs and aspirations of Indigenous communities.
ISSN:2291-9368
2291-9376
DOI:10.32799/ijih.v20il.42187