Hearing the voices of Indigenous people with neurodevelopmental disabilities
By Kendra Thomson and Louis Busch
Indigenous Peoples with neurodevelopmental disabilities ( NDDs ) and mental health challenges are among the most marginalized groups in the country . NDDs include things like autism and attention-deficit / hyperactivity disorder ( ADHD ).
Research points to persistent health inequities , and mental health research has tended to overemphasize suicide and substance use in Indigenous populations .
Although their stories also tell of strengths , struggles and important community contributions , the voices of Indigenous Peoples with NDDs often go unheard .
A report that includes immediate and long-term calls to action was developed to shed light on the experiences of this underrepresented group and create meaningful change in their lives .
“ Forming the Circle : 2023 Gathering on Indigeneity , Neurodevelopmental Disabilities and Mental Health ” was informed by a community event held last spring that brought together Indigenous community members , Knowledge Keepers and Elders , service providers , researchers and non-Indigenous allies from across Canada .
The report was authored by researchers from Brock University ( Kendra Thomson ) and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health - CAMH ( Louis Busch ) and reflects the findings from the event and recommendations for future actions . Attendees provided feedback on the report in focus groups after the event and before the report was released .
The gathering
The gathering explored how colonization , systemic discrimination and determinants of health such as food insecurity , housing and access to cultural safe services impact individuals , families and communities .
Gathering attendees concluded that the path forward should begin with establishing a national network on Indigeneity , neurodevelopmental disabilities and mental health to take action that will enhance the health and well-being of Indigenous Peoples with NDDs and mental health challenges .
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