Mental Health & Native American Heritage Month
By Arshia Verma
November is Native American Heritage Month; this month celebrates the history and diversity of the many Native American tribes and their cultural rituals. It also brings light to important contributions made by Indigenous people in the United States. About 2% of Americans identify as Native American or Indigenous. Réapparition Journal has an ongoing commitment to highlighting health disparities in disadvantaged communities. Consequently, this article discusses some mental health disparities in the Native American community and resources that offer assistance in times of need.
Unfortunately, there is a very strong stigma against receiving mental healthcare within the Native American community, making it challenging for individuals to get the help they need. Moreover, the multigenerational trauma caused by the history of colonization, forced relocation, and oppression plays a significant role in the overwhelming number of Native Americans suffering from mental illness. About 70% of Native Americans are estimated to suffer from mental illness at some point in their life. The extent and severity of mental illness are evident, as, in 2019, suicide was the second leading cause of death for Native Americans aged 10-34. Additionally, in 2020, Native Americans had the highest overdose mortality rate of about 41.4%.
Another major issue with the American healthcare system is that recent legislation has mostly only increased insurance coverage for Western-style mental health treatment services. Many Native Americans prefer to rely on spiritual and cultural treatments such as herbal remedies, smudging, and holistic approaches. These treatments are often not covered by insurance, and this can lead to a lack of accessible mental healthcare options.
Fortunately, there are many organizations around the nation working towards bridging the gap and increasing access to mental healthcare for Native Americans. The Strong Hearts Native Helpline (1-844-762-8483) can be used every day from 7 AM to 10 PM Central Time to receive help for domestic and dating violence, which are both large causes of mental illness. This line is specifically meant for Native Americans and allows callers to stay anonymous. WeRNative is a mental health resource that provides stories and content for Native American youth. This organization uses text messaging and social media to provide public health guidance to young people around the country.
If you, or someone you love, is suffering from a mental illness, please seek help. The US National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is 1-800-273-8255. For free, anonymous 24/7 crisis support in the US, you can text TALK to 741741. International suicide helplines can be found at befrienders.org.