Decolonization and Healing Pathways for Native American Mental Health

Key Insights:

• In this article, we reflect on both the historical and contemporary experiences of Native Americans and their mental health in the context of settler colonialism.
• Decolonization efforts in mental health are crucial for addressing the impacts of settler colonialist violence and promoting healing among Indigenous communities.
• Traditional practices, cultural resilience, and community-based initiatives are instrumental in the decolonization process and the overall wellbeing of Native Americans.

A Historical Context: Settler Colonialism and Its Enduring Effects

• Throughout history, Native Americans have endured systemic oppression, forced removal from their lands, and cultural erasure. These experiences have left deep-seated trauma that continues to affect mental health outcomes.
• The Indian Health Service (IHS), which is responsible for providing healthcare to Native Americans, has been criticized for its lack of cultural sensitivity and inadequacy in addressing the unique needs of Indigenous communities.

The Standing Rock Movement and Settler Colonialist Violence

• Miwok journalist Desiree Kane's personal account of her involvement in the #NoDAPL movement at Standing Rock sheds light on the violence and trauma experienced by Native Americans at the hands of settler colonial forces.
• Kane's struggle to access appropriate mental health support post-trauma highlights the need for culturally competent and trauma-informed care.

Decolonizing Mental Health: Traditional Practices and Ancestral Wisdom

• A 2017 study critiques the deficit lens often applied to Indigenous health, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the resilience and strengths of Native American communities.
• Indigenous researchers have proposed the BITE model, a culturally grounded approach to addressing mental health challenges and substance use, which incorporates coalition-building, trauma-informed healing, truth, and reconciliation.
• The LANDBACK movement, which advocates for the return of Indigenous lands, is intrinsically linked to mental wellbeing and sovereignty.

Intergenerational Trauma and Cultural Resilience

• Steven Fast Wolf, a member of the Lakota Nation, speaks to the intergenerational trauma stemming from forced cultural imposition and relocation to reservations.
• Native American cultures often draw upon cultural spirituality and traditions as sources of healing and support, such as the practice of tree washing for fostering connection with nature and community.

Social Work and Decolonization: Challenging Colonial Structures

• Cary B. Waubanascum, an Indigenous social work professor, highlights the ongoing presence of colonialism in the form of capitalism, racism, and a colonial gender system.
• Waubanascum calls for a decolonized definition of justice that addresses social work's complicity in settler colonialism and promotes culturally responsive practices.

Community Resilience and Healing Spaces

• A 2018 study emphasizes the need for culturally competent healthcare providers, promoting multicultural competence and decolonization.
• Waubanascum shares her experience of finding healing during the pandemic through virtual events with Indigenous centers, creating spaces for communal grieving and celebration.

Conclusion: Pathways to Healing and Decolonization

• Understanding the impacts of settler colonialism and promoting decolonization efforts are crucial for addressing the mental health needs of Native Americans.
• Recognizing traditional healing practices, investing in culturally competent healthcare, and creating spaces for community resilience are essential steps in promoting healing and wellbeing among Indigenous communities.
• By challenging colonial structures and embracing Indigenous knowledge systems, we can contribute to a more just and equitable society for Native Americans.