The First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework

In response to the disproportionate incidence of mental illnesses among indigenous communities in Canada, Health Canada and the Assembly of First Nations (AFN) collaborated to create The First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework. The drafting of the framework in 2012 involved over 1,000 stakeholders at the community, regional, national, and government levels to map existing mental health and addiction programs. This collaborative process informs improvements to existing and new mental health services for First Nations communities. The Framework describes a new vision for First Nations mental wellness, placing indigenous culture and First Nations’ strengths as central guidelines for improving the accessibility of mental health services as well as advising policy and program changes. While the outcomes of the Framework are under evaluation, this collaborative process may serve as a potential model for other economies who see indigenous mental health as a shared priority.