Indigenous Mental Health and Addictions in Canada With Comparisons to Australia and Globally

Indigenous people of Canada have faced a unique set of mental health and addiction challenges. Cultural discontinuity, and oppression have been linked to high rates of alcoholism and drug addiction, depression and suicide, HIV and injectable drug use, in addition to violence in many communities, with the greatest impact on youth. Prevalence rates for addictions including cannabis and opioid use and causes for high rates of suicide will be addressed, in addition to stark disparities in health outcomes between Indigenous and other Canadians. Attention to the determinants of health and access to health and mental health services has been vital to indigenous communities. This presentation will: overview a timeline of significant government policies, laws and acts, strategies and health care reports in Canada, with similarities to Australia and with a focus on those of significance to Indigenous populations. Comparison will be made to Australia with regard to policies of government operated schools (residential schools, stolen generations), government apologies (restitution, resolutions, healing foundations, restitution and compensation policies). Despite these challenges, many communities have done well, and international research has identified factors that promote wellness. An essential part of health care professional practice is to take a strengths based approach versus deficit based as part of empowerment and culturally safe care for clients. The most effective theoretical models and treatment approaches will be identified along with the role of nurses including the life long process of cultural competence and humility in meeting the needs of indigenous populations in Canada with implications for indigenous peoples globally. In response to the calls for action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, Indigenization of the educational curricula has been introduced in Canada in all primary, secondary, and post-secondary institutions to begin healing. Curriculum changes and educational resources have been developed to ensure that all generations understand the historical context of residential schools and to develop students’ awareness about the reconciliation process as a way to move forward. Undergraduate and graduate nursing programs have increased or introduced Indigenous content into their curricula. However, designated seats for Indigenous nursing students have long been a part of the strategic plan at some universities, while stand-alone courses on Indigenous health are popular nursing electives, that are highly subscribed to by all health care disciplines.