If you or someone you know is in crisis, reaching out for help can make a significant difference. CTV News has compiled this list of resources that are available for First Nations people dealing with potentially life-threatening health and mental health issues.
Who can help?
National Native Alcohol and Drug Abuse Program
The federal government program helps fund First Nations and Inuit-run initiatives to help communities deal with addiction issues. A list of local treatment centres can be found here.
The community-based program provides a wide range of mental health initiatives, including: information sessions on issues such as depression, family violence and stress management; counselling services; and wellness and recreational activities.
Indian Residential Schools Resolution Health Support Program
The government program offers mental health and emotional support to all former residential school students. Psychologists and socials workers are available for individual and family counselling. While local Aboriginal organizations offer cultural and emotional support. The program can also be contacted on its 24-hour national crisis line at 1-8666-925-4419.
Resources and literature
The Canadian Mental Health Association
The National Aboriginal Health Organization
The Canadian Association for Suicide Prevention
The website also includes a list of 24-hour crisis lines found across the country that can be found here.
Acting on what we know: Preventing Youth Suicide in First Nations
CTV has also compiled a list of mental health resources that are available across Canada here.
