Native American and Indigenous suicide prevention can save lives.
Many people struggle with mental health. Native and Indigenous people can face added stress. Some of this stress comes from the past. Some comes from problems people face today.
Still, there is hope.
Culture can give people strength. Family can give support. Community can help people feel less alone.
Most of all, everyone deserves help.
Mental Health Matters
Mental health is part of our health.
Sometimes life feels hard. A person may feel sad, scared, angry, or alone. They may also feel like no one understands them.
These feelings can become very heavy.
However, help is available.
Talking to someone can be a good first step. That person may be a friend, family member, Elder, counselor, teacher, doctor, or another trusted person.
You do not have to carry everything alone.
The Past Can Still Hurt
Native and Indigenous people have faced great harm.
Families were separated. Children were sent to boarding schools. People lost land. Many people were also kept from their language and culture.
That pain did not simply disappear.
In fact, pain can affect families for many years.
It is important to understand this history. It is also important to honor the strength of Native and Indigenous people.
People survived.
Cultures survived.
Traditions survived.
That strength continues today.
Culture Can Help
Culture can be a powerful source of support.
For example, people may find comfort through family, language, stories, music, art, traditions, or time with their community.
Some people may also find comfort through ceremony or time with Elders.
Every person is different. Every community is different too.
Therefore, there is no single way to heal.
The goal is to find what helps you feel safe, strong, and connected.
You Belong
Feeling connected can protect mental health.
It helps to know that someone cares about you. It also helps to know that you have a place in your family and community.
So, stay connected when you can.
Spend time with people you trust.
Talk about how you feel.
Ask for help when you need it.
Most importantly, remember this:
You belong.
Know the Warning Signs
A person may show signs when they are having a hard time.
For example, they may seem very sad. They may stop talking to friends or family. They may stop doing things they once enjoyed.
Their sleep may change too.
They may also use more alcohol or drugs.
In some cases, they may talk about death. They may say they want to die. They may also say that others would be better without them.
Take these words seriously.
Do not ignore them.
Instead, stay with the person and get help.
What You Can Do
You can help someone who is struggling.
First, listen.
Let them talk.
Next, remind them that they matter.
Do not judge them. Do not tell them to “get over it.”
Instead, say things such as:
“I am here for you.”
“You matter to me.”
“You are not alone.”
“We can find help together.”
Simple words can make a big difference.
Asking About Suicide
Sometimes you may worry that someone is thinking about suicide.
It is okay to ask.
You can ask, “Are you thinking about suicide?”
Then listen to the answer.
If they say yes, stay with them. Help them reach a crisis service or another safe person.
If there is immediate danger, call 911.
Taking action can save a life.
Support Can Look Different
There are many ways to get support.
Some people talk with a counselor. Others talk with family or friends.
In addition, some people may turn to an Elder or community leader.
Culture may also be part of healing.
There is no one right choice for everyone.
What matters is finding safe support that works for you.
Small Steps Matter
Healing does not always happen quickly.
Take one step at a time.
Talk to someone.
Spend time with family.
Go outside.
Rest.
Eat something.
Listen to music.
Write down your feelings.
Connect with your culture.
Ask for help.
A small step is still a step forward.
Help Is Available
You can call or text 988 for the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline.
Help is available day and night.
Veterans can call 988 and press 1. They can also text 838255.
Local Tribal and community programs may offer support too.
If you are in immediate danger, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room.
Hope Is Real
Hard days can make it difficult to see a way forward.
But hard days can change.
Help can make a difference.
Connection can make a difference.
Culture can make a difference.
One caring person can make a difference.
Native American and Indigenous suicide prevention begins with people caring for one another.
So, reach out.
Listen.
Stay connected.
Ask for help.
And remind the people around you that they matter.
Our people matter.
Our cultures matter.
and
Our communities matter.
You matter.
You are not alone.
There is hope.
