Reprinted from "Indigenous People" issue of Visions Journal, 2016, 11 (4), p. 36
Aboriginal Crisis Line: 1-800-588-8717
This crisis line offers help and support for anyone in BC and it is available day and night every day. You can also access help specifically for adults and Elders or children and youth by calling the same phone number. This crisis line is offered in partnership with the First Nations Health Authority and KUU-US Crisis Response Services.
Brochures from HeretoHelp on bipolar disorder and depression
HeretoHelp has two brochures, Bipolar Disorder: A guide for the Aboriginal community and Depression: A guide for the Aboriginal community. Each discusses symptoms, how to find help, and what loved ones can do to support someone else.
Indigenous Foundations
indigenousfoundations.arts.ubc.ca
A resource created for students at the University of BC and anyone who would like to learn more about the histories, politics, and cultures of Indigenous peoples in Canada. Find plain language resources developed by the First Nations and Indigenous Studies program as well a video archive.
National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation
The National Centre for Truth and Reconciliation protects statements and materials collected by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada. The Truth and Reconciliation Commission sought the experiences of those impacted by the residential school system, so that all Canadians can learn from and acknowledge the consequences and legacies of these practices. You can read the commission’s findings and full report, as well as supporting background information on residential schools and the Residential School Settlement Agreement, reconciliation, and educational resources. You can also find an archived version of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s website at www.trc.ca.
National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health
Based at the University of Northern BC, the National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health aims to improve public health systems that meet the needs of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis communities. Learn more about health from Aboriginal perspectives and find publications that explore topics such as depression, anxiety disorders, post-traumatic stress disorder, and maternal health.
First Nations Health Authority
The First Nations Health Authority provides appropriate health and wellness services and programs for First Nations community members alongside the BC Ministry of Health and the BC health authorities. They have many resources on mental health and well-being, including Hope, Help, and Healing: A Planning Toolkit for First Nations and Aboriginal Communities to Prevent and Respond to Suicide. Learn more about services, find wellness resources, and read the quarterly Spirit Magazine.
BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres
The BC Association of Aboriginal Friendship Centres supports Aboriginal Friendship Centres across the province that support urban Aboriginal people. You can learn more about the Friendship Centre model, provincial initiatives and programs, and connect with local Friendship Centres.
San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training
San'yas Indigenous Cultural Safety Training, delivered by the Provincial Health Services Authority, provides online training for people who work directly or indirectly with Indigenous peoples. Core ICS Training is appropriate for any professional, and there are additional courses for professionals in health, mental health, and child welfare services.
“One Focus; Many Perspectives:” A Curriculum for Cultural Safety and Cultural Competence Education
This curriculum was prepared by the First Nations, Inuit and Métis Advisory Committee to the Mental Health Commission of Canada in order to build relationships and improve cultural safety. It supports dialogue and sharing among participants, and is designed for anyone with direct or indirect contact with mental health or substance use systems.
Network for Aboriginal Mental Health Research
The Network for Aboriginal Mental Health Research is a partnership between Indigenous communities and researchers who work together to improve mental health. You can find training and education opportunities, articles, and a database of Indigenous mental health programs across Canada.
Mental Health First Aid
Mental Health First Aid gives people the skills to recognize and respond to mental health problems. Mental Health First Aid for Northern Peoples is designed for Indigenous communities in northern Canada, and Mental Health First Aid First Nations is designed for any First Nations community member.
