CANADA: House of Commons Report on Indigenous Suicide Issues 28 Recommendations

The Star

A parliamentary committee has released a set of recommendations for preventing suicide among indigenous populations in Canada. The recommendations are based on an investigation by a House of Commons committee that was tasked with researching and reporting on suicide in indigenous communities across the country. During its investigation, the committee heard testimony from indigenous youth, First Nations representatives, Inuit and Métis leaders, academics, and health organizations. The 28 recommendations include a call for addressing intergenerational trauma, investing in long-term solutions to improve housing and reduce homelessness, and ensuring that mental health services in indigenous communities are culturally competent and available to youth. The committee also recommended that the federal government improve Child and Family Services to help keep indigenous children out of foster care and encourage a “secure personal cultural identity.”

Spark Extra! Learn more about suicide prevention among racial and ethnic groups.