Community Mental Health and Ceremony

Community mental health is a strengths-based holistic approach to providing mental health services and care in the context of the lives and needs of community members. A group of researchers have defined community mental health care as the “principles and practices needed to promote mental health for a local population by: a) addressing population needs in ways that are accessible and acceptable; b) building on the goals and strengths of people who experience mental illnesses; c) promoting a wide network of supports, services and resources of adequate capacity; and d) emphasizing services that are both evidence-based and recovery-oriented” (Thornicroft et al., 2016, p. 276).  

For Indigenous and Tribal communities, community mental health is a direct response to the mental health challenges from experiences of historical and intergenerational trauma. Many Indigenous and Tribal communities are leading efforts to destigmatize mental health conditions and care, while remembering and re-indigenizing best practices for individual and collective healing. 

The collective trauma experienced by Indigenous communities is a wound that, while deep, is being healed through rituals, community ceremonies, and cultural traditions passed down through generations. Community mental health was discussed by community members in a variety of ways. One community member discussed the importance of community mental health addressing historical trauma. As a mental health practitioner centering Indigenous communities, they explained the need for culturally responsive therapists who understand the historical context and cultural practices that promote wellness and healing. 

Another community member shared the prevalence of mental health challenges experienced within many communities and the ongoing stigma associated with receiving support or treatment. Several community members described learning about mental health and finding knowledge and healing through therapy and talking with others.