Nations across the world are dealing with an unprecedented mental health crisis and Canada is no exception. As we work to find solutions, marginalized communities are falling through the gaps. With systemic barriers in place to access even the most basic of resources, and a deep-rooted distrust of conventional services due to historic treatment, Indigenous Peoples are experiencing disproportionately high rates of mental health challenges.

Stereotypes will tell us that poverty is caused by factors within an individuals’ control, but the reality is much more complex. Indigenous Peoples are eight times more likely to experience homelessness due to a systemic cycle of oppression, racism and discrimination. Intergenerational trauma and the breakdown of traditional supports has led to loss of identity and spiritual displacement.

Change begins with a single idea. For Marie Keeshig, a member of Neyaashiinigmiing First Nation in Ontario, her commitment to tackle youth addiction and homelessness in her community began after her niece passed away from a drug overdose. Stories like this are not rare, especially in remote Nations facing barriers to critical mental health services. There is an endemic of Indigenous youth struggling across Canada who need lifesaving safe spaces to turn to.

There are over 70 distinct spoken Indigenous languages within Canada and preservation of these sacred dialects has never been more important. As the number of fluent Indigenous language speakers decline, with historic efforts to erase these languages taking their toll, now is a critical time to revitalize languages before they’re gone forever.

Many Indigenous Peoples have been systematically disconnected from community, traditions and their sense of identity, which has led to a disproportionate number incarcerated, struggling with addiction, mental health and poverty. Cultural-centered programming hubs that prioritize healing through traditional methods can help reconnect individuals with their Indigeneity. As more Indigenous Peoples search for safe, welcoming spaces, these hubs are becoming critical for safety and cultural rejuvenation within communities.

The Canadian child welfare system has a long history of separating Indigenous children from their communities and culture. More than 50% of children in Canadian care are Indigenous, despite making up only 7% of the population. This has created widespread mistrust from Indigenous Peoples. Child welfare organizations must reflect on their negative impacts and seek to address harmful practices with the goal of mending relationships. The first step is to reduce the number of Indigenous children in care.

Canada’s historical legacy of removing Indigenous children from Indigenous homes has disconnected many Indigenous Peoples from their communities and sense of self. It’s more important now than ever for Indigenous Peoples to have access to childcare and instill pride in Indigenous Children from a young age. Incorporating Indigenous cultural play items into childcare centres and programs is necessary to encourage self-acceptance, cultural identity and respect for the land and all living things. Unfortunately, while public funding covers basic expenses it is not enough to purchase Indigenous resources, play equipment and supplies.

As humans, no matter where we find ourselves, we all just want to belong. This is especially true for Métis youth, many of whom have been physically or culturally displaced from their traditional roots. Belonging to a largely misunderstood ancestral group, combined with the complex issue of Métis identity, these young people feel especially isolated as they try to find their place in the world. Providing a pathway to cultural connection is critical to instilling pride in young Indigenous Peoples.

For Indigenous Peoples, traditional regalia holds deep cultural significance. Whether worn at family gatherings, communal events, or ceremonies like Pow Wows, these garments are expressions of identity, pride, and ancestry. Ribbon dresses, shirts, and skirts are particularly iconic in First Nation and Métis cultures, often personalized with meaningful colors and designs. While these garments are widely recognized, the traditional knowledge of how to craft them is at risk of being forgotten.

Indigenous activism is growing, and young leaders in First Nations communities are stepping up to ensure the next generation carries forward traditional practices and cultural celebrations. The Mohawks of Akwesasne are among those championing efforts to bring back Akwesasronon culture and language, starting with their youngest members in the classroom. However, the community currently doesn’t have youth groups dedicated to preserving traditional Mohawk social and ceremonial singing or teaching culture through performance and drama.