How to support Native American mental wellness
Native Americans have endured centuries of oppression, trauma, and discrimination that have taken a toll on their mental health and well-being. According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), Native Americans have higher rates of mental health disorders, substance abuse, suicide, and violence than other racial and ethnic groups in the U.S. They also face many barriers to accessing quality and culturally appropriate mental health care, such as lack of insurance, transportation, and trust, stigma and shame, and shortage of providers who understand their culture and history.
However, Native Americans also have many strengths and resources that can help them cope with and overcome their mental health challenges. They have a rich and diverse culture that values spirituality, community, family, and harmony with nature. They have a resilient and courageous spirit that has enabled them to survive and thrive despite the hardships they have faced. They have a strong sense of identity and pride that connects them to their ancestors, traditions, and lands.
As allies and supporters of Native Americans, we can help them improve their mental wellness by respecting and honoring their culture, history, and experiences. Here are some ways we can do that:
Educate ourselves about the history and culture of Native Americans. We can learn about the historical and intergenerational trauma that Native Americans have suffered and how it affects their mental health today. We can also learn about the diversity and richness of their cultures, languages, beliefs, and practices. We can avoid stereotypes, myths, and generalizations that may harm or offend Native Americans. We can also acknowledge the contributions and achievements of Native Americans in various fields and domains.
Listen to and validate the voices and stories of Native Americans. We can create safe and supportive spaces for Native Americans to share their feelings, thoughts, opinions, and experiences without judgment or interruption. We can empathize with their pain, anger, sadness, or joy. We can also celebrate their successes, strengths, and resilience. We can also amplify their voices and stories in our own platforms and networks.
Advocate for the rights and needs of Native Americans. We can support the efforts of Native Americans to protect their lands, resources, sovereignty, and culture from exploitation, encroachment, or erasure. We can also support their efforts to improve their social, economic, educational, and health outcomes. We can also speak up against racism, discrimination, violence, or injustice that Native Americans face in various settings and contexts.
Donate to or volunteer for organizations that serve Native Americans. We can support the work of organizations that provide mental health care, education, housing, food, clothing, or other services to Native Americans in need. We can also support the work of organizations that promote Native American culture, arts, language, or heritage. Some examples of such organizations are the Native Guardians Foundation, the National Indian Health Board, the American Indian College Fund, and the First Nations Development Institute.
By supporting Native American mental wellness, we are not only helping them heal from their past wounds but also empowering them to create a better future for themselves and their communities. We are also enriching our own lives by learning from their wisdom, diversity, and beauty. Let us join hands with our Native American brothers and sisters in building a more just, inclusive, and compassionate world for all.
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