November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to recognize and celebrate the rich history, culture, and contributions of Native American communities.
This month provides an important opportunity to honor their heritage, and an opportunity to foster awareness and advocate for improved mental health resources to support the mental well-being of Native American communities.
According to the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration’s (SAMHSA) 2022 National Survey on Drug Use and Health, 19.6 percent of Native American adults experienced a mental illness within the past year. And 50.1 percent of Native American youth experienced mild to severe anxiety, according to the 2022 State of Mental Health for Youth and Young Adults of Color report from The AAKOMA Project.
We invite Native American communities to explore the resources below, and for everyone to join us in advocating for improved Native American mental health and well-being.
- 988 Crisis and Suicide Lifeline – Find tips and resources to support yourself, a loved one, and other members of American Indian, Alaska Natives, and Indigenous Peoples communities
- Indian Health Service – Resources for the Healing Process
- Indigenous Wellness Research Institute – Mental Health and Wellness Resources
Youth & Young Adults
- We R Native – Comprehensive health resources and information for Native youth, by Native youth
- Center for Native American Youth – A national education and advocacy organization that works alongside Native youth on reservations, in rural villages and urban spaces across the country to improve their health, safety and overall well-being
Podcasts & Videos
- Mentally Healthy Nation – Indigenous/Native American Mental Health
- Opioids in Indian Country – Understanding the problem, promoting treatment and cultural interventions
Articles
- American Psychological Association – The healing power of Native American culture is inspiring psychologists to embrace cultural humility
