Indigenous People & Mental Health Awareness

When it comes to struggling with mental health, not all groups of people are impacted in the same way. Many articles have been written and studies done about mental illnesses among groups like teenagers or the LGBTQ community. What’s just now starting to be examined more fully is how Native Americans and Alaskan Natives are impacted by conditions such as depression, anxiety, and other mental health disorders. In fact, many people within the Indigenous community suffer higher numbers of mental illnesses than their counterparts. Montare Behavioral Health of Tucson provides a program that addresses Indigenous mental health diseases and offers structured care to help treat them.

Indigenous People and Mental Health 

While members of any population can develop mental health disorders, it often happens at an alarming rate in the Indigenous/Native community. Indigenous mental health disorders happen at a rate higher than the average person might expect. Statistics show that 1.3% of the U.S. population is Native American or Alaskan Native, with most of them living in the Mid-West or Western states. Within this group:

• Approximately one out of five dealt with a mental illness in the previous year.
• They are 2.5 times more likely to experience serious psychological distress compared to the general population.
• The suicide rate for those aged 15-19 is more than double that of non-Hispanic whites. 
• They begin to use and abuse drugs and alcohol at a higher rate than any other ethnic group.
• Nearly twice as many live in poverty and are about twice as likely to be unemployed, compared to their counterparts. 

These issues make getting help for mental health disorders and substance abuse a priority for many people within the Indigenous/Native population.

Montare is Recognizing Indigenous Mental Health Awareness During the Month of October 

With Indigenous People’s Day happening this month, Montare Behavioral Health treatment centers would like to recognize this important event. We hope to bring more awareness to the Indigenous/Native population and their mental health needs throughout the month of October. 

When is Indigenous Day 2023? 

Indigenous People’s Day will be on October 9 this year. It is held on the second Monday in October each year. This day helps promote information about what life is like within the community, celebrates its members, and shines a spotlight on vital issues such as mental health challenges. 

Approaches to Mental Health Treatment for Indigenous People 

Montare Tucson is located in the heart of Arizona where many members of the Indigenous/Native population reside. We offer an individualized approach to treatment for mental illness that respects each person’s background and belief systems. We help treat mental health disorders that affect Indigenous people with an eye on catering to their specific needs. Additionally, we offer a variety of holistic treatment options that help treat the individual’s mind, body, and spirit simultaneously. Options for holistic therapies may include:

• Yoga
• Meditation
• Acupuncture
• Reiki
• Guided imagery
• Mindfulness
• Breath therapy
• Nutritional and exercise counseling 

Contact Montare Tucson About Indigenous Mental Health Treatment

Are you a member of the Indigenous community and need help finding treatment for a mental health disorder? Montare Behavioral Health of Tucson treats Indigenous mental health needs with respect and provides professional guidance that meets your needs. Our residential facility is located in a scenic area of Arizona and provides a home away from home while you relax and get the specific care you need. 

Would you like more information about our treatment facility and how coming here can help improve your mental health? Visit our admissions page now and let’s talk about what you need to help hit the reset button for your life.