SARA DRINKARD --- Despite Native American (NA) communities being generally community-oriented and surrounded by support, these communities face disproportionate suicide rates. Since 2015, suicide rates among NAs have increased 20%, despite the only <1% increase in the total US population (Stone, 2022). From 2017-2022, NAs comprised 25% of Montana’s suicide rate, despite only making up 6.5% of the state’s population (One of the highest percentages in the country) (Rosston, 2022). In other minority and ethnic community, rates have also increased, but none to the extent of NA communities, despite decades of research into suicide prevention by the CDC. Why is this? Could this be due to the fact that most suicide prevention efforts lack cultural relevance or sensitivity? Maybe the underfunding and under-resourcing of Indian Health Services, especially in more rural areas. NAs were found to have more adverse upbringings and childhood experiences, which could also contribute to these high rates (Giano et al, 2021). NA’s face some of the worst intergenerational trauma as a result of years of colonization, discrimination, relocation, and overall poor treatment by the US government (Ehlers et al, 2022). Although the historical damage done to NA communities is irreparable, future changes can be made to combat suicide rates and improve quality of life for NAs, starting with adjusting commonly used suicide screening tools to incorporate more cultural awareness and understanding of beliefs and practices. These kinds of tools should be developed by NA researchers. Without the kind of understanding that is only had by other NAs, research and tools are hampered by distrust within the communities. There must be collaboration with elected officials and stakeholders within the community in order to develop relevant and effective tools. Mental health resources to be spread throughout communities, especially rural. The difference between Indian Health Service workers and community members needs to decrease, given that oftentimes a few workers will be tasked with a community of over 600. Suicide prevention efforts in NA communities can only reach their full potential with the help of NA community stakeholders and increased and more publicized mental health resources.
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