Experiences with recovery from substance use in a Northern Midwest Indigenous Reservation setting

Area of Science:

• Public Health
• Indigenous Studies
• Addiction Research

Background:

• Substance use recovery is challenging, especially in rural areas with limited access to services.
• Indigenous Peoples face unique structural inequities impacting sustained recovery.
• Understanding recovery experiences in rural Indigenous settings is vital for program development.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore factors supporting recovery and challenges faced by Indigenous adults in a rural setting.
• To identify desired community supports for sustained recovery.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) study.
• Semi-structured interviews with 24 Indigenous adults in recovery from illicit substance use.
• Thematic analysis informed by the Indigenous Connectedness Framework (ICF).

Main Results:

• Connectedness across ICF domains (peers, family, elders, friends) and spiritual practices were key strengths.
• Isolation was common, exacerbated by transportation barriers and drug-using social networks.
• Participants requested more substance-free cultural events and transportation assistance.

Conclusions:

• Social connectedness is integral to Indigenous recovery, aligning with holistic wellbeing concepts.
• Peer-recovery support programs show potential.
• Expanding access to cultural practices and events can enhance recovery outcomes.