Indigenous Approaches to Wellness: A Response to the COVID-19 Mental Health Crisis in Indigenous Communities

The COVID-19 pandemic has seen a dramatic increase in mental health issues, overdose, suicide, and violence in Indigenous communities. Numerous studies and reports call for community-driven approaches to wellness that support Indigenous communities in culturally relevant ways. Yet, many communities do not have the resources to support such approaches. In response to the literature and immediate needs of communities in central Alberta, the current study will explore community members’ experiences of community-driven cultural wellness programs in addressing the COVID-19 mental health crisis in the Rocky Mountain House region. This research directly supports the community-based capacity to respond to mental health crises. It will provide a foundation for further research to investigate the effectiveness of cultural programs in addressing the mental health needs of Indigenous communities.

Faculty Supervisor:

Karlee Fellner

Student:

Partner:

Mental Health Research Canada;Âsokêwin Friendship Centre

Discipline:

Sociology

Sector:

Other services (except public administration); Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

University of Calgary

Program: