global indigenous mental health

For many people in the indigenous community, there is a unity of; individual, family, community, nature and the earth/cosmic environment. They do not traditionally separate each element. So for us in the western mode of thinking, a wider perspective must be built for us to better understand how the community and family members take on a caring responsibility in specific indigenous communities. The concept of ‘mental health’ can be very different, as is the conception of mental illness.

In this sample of content and research that The Mission Media Company has just begun, we will share video clips and text to provide specific concepts and hopefully to inspire thoughtful ways we can grow in supporting ourselves, our families and our communities. To date, we have interviewed or filmed a select group of North & South American health practitioners and support staff to learn directly from indigenous health practitioners about their philosophy, worldview, spiritual practices, rituals and social health awareness. There is an overwhelming richness and dichotomy of culture, community, tradition, practice, language and understanding. It is NOT possible to provide any answers or single approaches. But it is possible for us to learn a bit more about indigenous communities, as a way for us to broaden our own awareness and thinking. That is all we are intending – to offer ways to open up new understanding for ourselves. So please take each clip as an observation – not a ‘one-way to do things’ concept.  

Please get in touch with us if you are interested in seeing or creating more content, sponsoring or collaborating in our work, and supporting this important initiative. We have a lot to learn from a more inclusive and holistic approach, through learning more about indigenous communities.

This section is a work in progress! We will soon post video clips that are an introduction to the key things we’ve learned. We feel increasing awareness of indigenous philosophy, practice and research on how community mental health is perceived will bring about a wider understanding. We are preparing more material for this initiative. Any clips now posted will provide some basic introduction. Please check back soon for more Global & Indigenous Mental Health project materials.

> Global Indigenous Mental Health Concepts & Practice: VIDEO CLIPS GALLERY