Preserving culture combats suicide risk among Indigenous youth

By Steffanie Costigan  Local Journalism Initiative Reporter Alberta Health Services (AHS) is continuing its month-long celebration of the upcoming National Indigenous People’s Month. The topic of discussion Monday was Honouring Life, a comprehensive wellness program dealing with mental health and suicide prevention for Indigenous youth; the meeting was held through Zoom at noon. Nathaniel Chalifoux, one of the guest speakers, noted how culture creates security in the Indigenous future, and research has shown preserving culture within the youth has combated risks of suicide. “Cultural connection and expression creates a sense of pride and increases feelings of security, belonging, and hope for the future, as strong cultural connections create a personal resource of benefit young people throughout their lives and in times of crisis. In researching this guide, we found many…

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