Evidence Mapping: Interventions for American Indian and Alaska Native Youth Mental Health

Background: Suicide is the second leading cause of death for Native youth aged 15-24. Similarly, Native youth have a suicide rate 1.5 times higher than the general population and are at higher risk for depression and substance use. A persistent need remains for culturally specific mental health interventions for American Indian youth.Methods: In response to the push for research-supported interventions, evidence mapping has emerged as systematic, rigorous, and replicable analysis of evidence. The overall goal of this study is to utilize evidence mapping for mental health interventions for American Indian youth.Results: A total of 9 interventions were mapped as research-supported interventions for American Indian mental health. The interventions fell into one or more of four main categories: school-based services, cultural adaptations, culture as treatment, and community involvement.Discussion: Results of this study demonstrate the strength of culturally specific mental health interventions for American Indian youth. Future research should seek to evaluate promising practices for American Indian youth in order to increase available research-supported interventions. Additionally, future endeavors should seek to combine both Indigenous and Western approaches to practice with a particular focus on holistic wellness.