A community-driven and evidence-based approach to developing mental wellness strategies in First Nations: a program...

Area of Science:

• Indigenous Health Research
• Community-Based Participatory Research
• Mental Health Interventions

Background:

• Mental health, substance use/addiction, and violence (MSV) significantly impact Indigenous Peoples in Canada.
• Existing service gaps and challenges hinder effective support for Indigenous communities.
• There is a need for community-driven approaches that respect Indigenous self-determination.

Purpose of the Study:

• To outline the protocol for the Mental Wellness Program (MWP), a research-to-action initiative.
• To enhance community capacity and promote relationship-building among Indigenous communities.
• To develop and implement community-specific mental wellness strategies using local data.

Main Methods:

• A four-phase approach: data collection (surveys, interviews, focus groups), review and synthesis, participatory action research, and knowledge sharing.
• Utilizing local data to understand MSV issues, service needs, community strengths, and resilience factors.
• Engaging community members, individuals with lived experience, and service providers in strategy development and evaluation.

Main Results:

• The MWP protocol is designed to be adaptable to the unique needs of each First Nation community.
• It emphasizes building on existing community supports and resilience factors to address MSV challenges.
• The program facilitates the sharing of knowledge-to-action models and wellness strategies developed by and for First Nations people.

Conclusions:

• The MWP offers a culturally relevant framework for addressing complex MSV issues in Indigenous communities.
• By leveraging local data and community-driven approaches, the program supports self-determination and sustainable wellness outcomes.
• Exemplary models and strategies developed through the MWP can be shared to benefit other First Nations communities.