Autumn is a time that we experience the seasonal shift from summer to fall. The crisp air, colourful leaves, and salmon returning to spawn remind us of the cycles of life and the healing power of the land. Each season offers its own gifts, and spending time outdoors can be deeply beneficial for our mental wellness. Let us reflect on these gifts as we observe
World Mental Health Day on Oct. 10, so we can take care of our wellness.
Since time immemorial, First Nations have honoured seasonal changes through tradition, teachings, and ceremony. These practices, passed down by our ancestors, carry the strength and wisdom that helped them heal from profound trauma. One core teaching reminds us that we are all connected, and that what affects one, affects us all. As Squamish Nation Knowledge Keeper Syexwaliya says, “To live life in a good way, we must all work together and support one another."
Teachings from the lands and territories
Land-based healing is one meaningful way to reconnect with these teachings, spend time outdoors, and nurture our mental wellness. This year for World Mental Health Day, FNHA encourages you to spend time on the land, to experience nature and its ability to heal and
nurture our spirit.
(this image is from the launch of the LBH Evaluation)
FNHA supports communities to host land-based healing activities through the Indigenous Treatment and Land-Based Healing Fund, provided by the BC Ministry of Health. These initiatives are a powerful way for communities to offer culturally grounded wellness activities that help support the mental health of participants.
Community Spotlight: Dãkelh Dené Nation
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In the Interior Region, the Dãkelh Dené Nation mapped and cleared a hiking trail to the traditional mountain Besbut'a (Anahim Peak) and constructed outhouse facilities to support the reclaimation of traditional territory. This initiative fostered connection to the land among members.
Two organized hikes were offered in the summer, one school-based for Ulkatcho youth and one for community members. The initiative was led by the community mental health clinician with support from Elders and up to 20 community members. A community meal followed each hike.
Programming also included an Uncle Program, which brought men together to cut wood, hunt, fish and camp. Children were brought up to the mountain to strengthen cultural and community connections and deepen their relationship with the land.
Funding support for your community initiative
To learn more about the Indigenous Treatment and Land-Based Healing Fund please reach out to your FNHA Community Engagement Coordinator. You can view the evaluation report, including project highlights from around the province,
here.
Resources
The Hope, Help, and Healing Planning Toolkit for First Nations Communities intends to support planning and developing a suicide prevention, intervention and postvention plan at the community, tribal council, Nation-based and sub-regional levels.
