First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework

Executive Summary

• Developed in partnership with First Nations to address mental health and substance use issues.
• Aims to improve mental wellness outcomes for First Nations by establishing a continuum of care.
• Strengthens integration between federal, provincial, and territorial programs, providing guidance to communities.
• Emphasizes cultural elements and community priorities.

Section 1: Getting to a Conceptual Framework

Defining Mental Wellness

• Mental wellness encompasses mental, physical, emotional, and spiritual balance.
• Supported by purpose, hope, belonging, and meaning, enriched through cultural engagement.

Key Drivers

• Strong need for coordinated mental health and addiction programs.
• Informed by various strategic plans and collaborations.

Moving Forward

• Partnership and engagement with First Nations health networks.
• Requires sustained commitment and leadership for effective implementation.

Section 2: The Conceptual Framework

Developing a Framework

• Joint process involving First Nations Health Branch, AFN, and Indigenous mental health leaders.
• Addresses gaps and outlines a comprehensive framework for mental wellness services.

Model and Continuum of Mental Wellness Services

• Promotes balanced wellness across lifespan with services like health promotion, crisis response, and trauma-informed treatment.
• Recognizes supporting elements such as governance, research, and performance measurement.

Section 3: Culture

• Culture is foundational to mental wellness, expressing identity and interconnectedness.
• Acknowledges cultural knowledge as key to wellness, supporting healing practices and resilience.

Section 4: Current Status

• Federal programs exist but significant gaps remain in accessibility, quality, and continuity of care.
• Lack of dedicated funding for clinical mental health services in First Nations communities.

Section 5: Context and Key Considerations

History Matters

• Colonization and Indian Residential Schools have had lasting impacts on First Nations mental wellness.

Determinants of Health

• Health influenced by social and historical factors.
• Disparities in income, employment, and housing affect mental wellness.

Rural and Remote Communities

• Face challenges in accessing mental wellness services due to isolation.

Northern Communities

• Unique logistical challenges in providing services; reliance on land-based healing and telehealth.

Section 6: Key Themes

Culture as Foundation

• Culture is central to achieving wellness, guiding all levels of health systems.

Community Development, Ownership, and Capacity Building

• Communities should control and develop their programs.
• Community wellness plans support holistic approaches and community engagement.

Quality Care System and Competent Service Delivery

• Essential to have quality services that are culturally competent.
• Emphasis on education, training, and professional development.

Collaboration with Partners

• Requires clear roles and responsibilities, strong leadership, and partnerships across sectors.

Enhanced Flexible Funding

• Need for sustainable funding and flexibility to meet community needs.

Conclusion

• The Framework represents a shared vision for optimal mental wellness in First Nations communities.
• Implementation requires cultural grounding, comprehensive services, and effective partnerships.
• An evergreen Implementation Plan accompanies the Framework to guide ongoing improvements.