Tag Archive for: Traditional Healing

Traditional Medicine and Indigenous Health in Indigenous Hands

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Authors: Gerard Bodeker and Kishan Kariippanon

Publication Year: 2020

Last Updated: February 2020

Journal: Global Public Health

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Health Disparities; Minority Groups; Social Determinants of Health; Community Health Worker; Social Media; Traditional Medicine

 

Short Abstract: This is a summarization of the importance and current progress of implementing traditional healing practices in care for Indigenous patients around the world.

 

Abstract: This is a summarization of the importance and current progress of implementing traditional healing practices in care for Indigenous patients around the world. An estimated 370 million Indigenous people reside in 90 countries and make up 5% of the global population. Three hundred million Indigenous people live in extremely disadvantaged rural locations. Indigenous people have suffered from historic injustices due to colonization and the dispossession of their lands, territories, and resources, thus preventing them from exercising their right to development according to their own needs and interests. Across the board, Indigenous people have poorer health outcomes when compared to their non-Indigenous fellow citizens. Cancer, respiratory disease, endocrine, nutritional, and metabolic disorders, primarily diabetes, affect Indigenous people disproportionately. Newborns of Indigenous women are more than twice as likely to be of low birth weight as those born to non-Indigenous women. Indigenous rates of suicide are the highest in the world. For public health to be effective, a social determinants approach, along with health interventions, is insufficient to create lasting health impact. Partnerships with Indigenous organizations, Indigenous researchers, and the professionalization of health workers is essential. Integration of traditional medicine and traditional health practitioners can enable the Western biomedical model to work in partnership with Indigenous knowledge systems and become more locally relevant and accountable. The Indigenous health workforce is increasingly using evidence-based, innovative approaches to address the shortage of health professionals as they move toward universal health coverage. Internet, mobile, and communication technologies are enhancing the mobilization of Indigenous health efforts and the support for health workers in rural locations. Presented are country examples of integrated medicine and Indigenous partnerships that effectively implement health interventions.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://oxfordre.com/publichealth/display/10.1093/acrefore/9780190632366.001.0001/acrefore-9780190632366-e-155;jsessionid=409765ACF0760DBB260A341A7038DF23

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article

Incorporating Traditional Healing Into an Urban American Indian Health Organization: A Case Study of Community Member Perspectives

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Authors: William E. Hartmann and Joseph P. Gone

Publication Year: 2012

Last Updated: October 2012

Journal: Journal of Counseling Psychology

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Health Disparities; Mental and Behavioral Health; Qualitative Content Analysis; Community-Based Research

 

Short Abstract: Facing severe mental health disparities rooted in a complex history of cultural oppression, members of many urban American Indian (AI) communities are reaching out for indigenous traditional healing to augment their use of standard Western mental health services. Because detailed descriptions of approaches for making traditional healing available for urban AI communities do not exist in the literature, this community-based project convened 4 focus groups consisting of 26 members of a midwestern urban AI community to better understand traditional healing practices of interest and how they might be integrated into the mental health and substance abuse treatment services in an Urban Indian Health Organization (UIHO).

 

Abstract: Facing severe mental health disparities rooted in a complex history of cultural oppression, members of many urban American Indian (AI) communities are reaching out for indigenous traditional healing to augment their use of standard Western mental health services. Because detailed descriptions of approaches for making traditional healing available for urban AI communities do not exist in the literature, this community-based project convened 4 focus groups consisting of 26 members of a midwestern urban AI community to better understand traditional healing practices of interest and how they might be integrated into the mental health and substance abuse treatment services in an Urban Indian Health Organization (UIHO). Qualitative content analysis of focus group transcripts revealed that ceremonial participation, traditional education, culture keepers, and community cohesion were thought to be key components of a successful traditional healing program. Potential incorporation of these components into an urban environment, however, yielded 4 marked tensions: traditional healing protocols versus the realities of impoverished urban living, multitribal representation in traditional healing services versus relational consistency with the culture keepers who would provide them, enthusiasm for traditional healing versus uncertainty about who is trustworthy, and the integrity of traditional healing versus the appeal of alternative medicine. Although these tensions would likely arise in most urban AI clinical contexts, the way in which each is resolved will likely depend on tailored community needs, conditions, and mental health objectives.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3621761/

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article

The Sweat Lodge Ceremony: A Healing Intervention for Intergenerational Trauma and Substance Use

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Authors: Teresa Naseba Marsh, David C. Marsh, Julie Ozawagosh, Frank Ozawagosh

Publication Year: 2018

Last Updated:

Journal: The International Indigenous Policy Journal

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Mental and Behavioral Health

 

Short Abstract: Many traditional healers and Elders agree that strengthening cultural identity, incorporating traditional healing practices, and encouraging community integration can enhance and improve mental health and reduce substance use disorders (SUD) in Indigenous populations.

 

Abstract: Many traditional healers and Elders agree that strengthening cultural identity, incorporating traditional healing practices, and encouraging community integration can enhance and improve mental health and reduce substance use disorders (SUD) in Indigenous populations. Despite the fact that traditional healing practices have always been valued by Indigenous Peoples, there is very little research on efficacy. Recent research by one of the authors in this group (T. Marsh) has shown that the blending of Indigenous traditional healing practices and a Western treatment model, Seeking Safety, resulted in a reduction in intergenerational trauma (IGT) symptoms and substance use disorders (SUD). This article focuses on the qualitative evidence concerning the impact of the traditional healing practices, specifically the sweat lodge ceremony. Participants reported an increase in spiritual and emotional well-being that they said was directly attributable to the ceremony. This study demonstrates that it would be beneficial to incorporate Indigenous traditional healing practices, including the sweat lodge ceremony, into Seeking Safety to enhance the health and well-being of Indigenous Peoples with IGT and SUD.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://ojs.lib.uwo.ca/index.php/iipj/article/view/7544/6188

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article

Traditional Healing, Biomedicine and the Treatment of HIV/AIDS: Contrasting South African and Native American Experiences

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Authors: Adrian Flint

Publication Year: 2015

Last Updated: April 20th, 2015

Journal:

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Ethnicity; HIV/AIDS; Minority Groups

 

Short Abstract: Traditional healing remains an important aspect of many people’s engagement with healthcare and, in this, responses to the treatment of HIV/AIDS are no different.

 

Abstract: Traditional healing remains an important aspect of many people’s engagement with healthcare and, in this, responses to the treatment of HIV/AIDS are no different. However, given the gravity of the global HIV/AIDS pandemic, there has been much debate as to the value of traditional healing in this respect. Accordingly, this paper explores the extent to which meaningful accommodation between the biomedical and traditional sectors is possible (and/or even desirable). It does this through a consideration of Native American and South African experiences, looking at how the respective groups, in which medical pluralism is common, have addressed the issue of HIV/AIDS. The paper points to the importance of developing “culturally appropriate” forms of treatment that emphasize complementary rather than adversarial engagement between the traditional and biomedical systems and how policymakers can best facilitate this.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4410250/

Type of Resource: Best Practices Newsletter

Participation in a Culturally Grounded Program Strengthens Cultural Identity, Self-Esteem, and Resilience in Urban Indigenous Adolescents

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Authors: Amanda Hunter, Mikah Carlos, Felix B. Muniz, et al.

Publication Year: 2022

Last Updated:

Journal:

Keywords: Childcare; Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Mental and Behavioral Health; Youth; After School Program; Self-esteem; resilience

 

Short Abstract: Culturally grounded after-school programs (ASPs) aim to promote health and well-being among Indigenous youth. Native Spirit is a 10-session ASP that focuses on local cultural values and activities facilitated by local cultural practitioners.

 

Abstract: Culturally grounded after-school programs (ASPs) aim to promote health and well-being among Indigenous youth. Native Spirit is a 10-session ASP that focuses on local cultural values and activities facilitated by local cultural practitioners. This pilot study used a single group, pretest-posttest design (N = 18) with Indigenous adolescents in grades 7-12 and conducted participant interviews (N = 11) to assess the impact of the program on cultural identity, self-esteem, and resilience. There were immediate post-program increases in mean strength in cultural identity (p = 0.002), resilience (p = 0.161), and self-esteem (p = 0.268). Themes related to benefits of program participation included curiosity and commitment to cultural identity, increases in self-esteem, and ability to build resilience. This study provides new insights on the relationship between cultural engagement and adolescent health.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://coloradosph.cuanschutz.edu/docs/librariesprovider205/journal_files/vol29/29_1_2022_1_hunter.pdf

Type of Resource: Best Practices Newsletter

The Culture Is Prevention Project: Measuring Culture as a Social Determinant of Mental Health for Native/Indigenous Peoples

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Authors: Paul Masotti, John Dennem, Shir Hadani, et al.

Publication Year: 2020

Last Updated:

Journal: American Indian and Alaska Native Mental Health Research

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Mental and Behavioral Health; Identity; Spirituality; Traditions

 

Short Abstract: This paper reports Phase 4 of the Culture is Prevention Project where we validated the Cultural Connectedness Scale – California (CCSCA) with a sample of 344 Indigenous adults in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. In Phase 3 of this project, the CCS-CA was modified from the original Canadian Cultural Connectedness Scale (CCS) developed by Dr. Angela Snowshoe and colleagues to be a better fit for the more multi-tribal communities in urban California.

 

Abstract: This paper reports Phase 4 of the Culture is Prevention Project where we validated the Cultural Connectedness Scale – California (CCSCA) with a sample of 344 Indigenous adults in the San Francisco Bay Area, California. In Phase 3 of this project, the CCS-CA was modified from the original Canadian Cultural Connectedness Scale (CCS) developed by Dr. Angela Snowshoe and colleagues to be a better fit for the more multi-tribal communities in urban California. Both the CCS-CA and CCS consist of 29 items that measure culture on 3 sub-scales: identity, traditions, and spirituality. The project demonstrated a positive link between cultural connectedness and mental health/well-being using the Herth Hope Index. We report results similar to the original CCS study by Snowshoe et al., where we found the CCS-CA to be a valid and reliable strength-based instrument and to support the conclusion that culture is a social determinant of mental health/well-being for Indigenous/Native peoples in urban areas. Note: This study included indigenous individuals from tribes based in Latin America and Canada as well as the United States.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://coloradosph.cuanschutz.edu/docs/librariesprovider205/journal_files/vol27/27_1_2020_86_masotti.pdf?sfvrsn=6fee0b9_2

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article

Cultural adaptation of the Be Under Your Own Influence media campaign for middle-school American Indian youth

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Authors: Linda R. Stanley, Kathleen J. Kelly, Randall C. Swaim, Danielle Jackman

Publication Year: 2018

Last Updated:

Journal: Journal of Health Communication

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Health Disparities; Mental and Behavioral Health; Social Determinants of Health; Substance Use; Youth

 

Short Abstract: American Indian (AI) adolescents living on reservations report much higher substance use rates compared to other youth yet there are few effective prevention interventions developed for them. This paper presents findings from formative research undertaken to guide adaptation for AI youth of a prevention intervention, Be Under Your Own Influence (BUYOI), previously found to be effective in reducing substance use among middle-school youth.

 

Abstract: American Indian (AI) adolescents living on reservations report much higher substance use rates compared to other youth yet there are few effective prevention interventions developed for them. This paper presents findings from formative research undertaken to guide adaptation for AI youth of a prevention intervention, Be Under Your Own Influence (BUYOI), previously found to be effective in reducing substance use among middle-school youth. We conducted focus groups with 7th graders, the primary target audience, and photovoice with 11th graders, the role models who would help deliver the campaign, to inform surface and deep structure adaptation. Both age groups noted the pervasiveness of substance use on the reservation and indicated that this posed a major challenge to being drug and alcohol free. Students also described aspects of their community that tied to signs of social disorganization. However, these youth have much in common with other youth, including high future aspirations, involvement in activities and hobbies, and influence from family and friends. At the same time, there were important differences in the experiences, environment, and values of these AI youth, including an emphasis on different types of activities, a more collectivist cultural orientation, tribal identity and pride, and the importance of extended families. Note: Urban AI youths were not the primary demographic collaborating on this research. Further cultural adaptation of the program for urban AI/AN youth may be needed.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6362830/

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article

American Indian Historical Trauma: Anti-Colonial Prescriptions for Healing, Resilience, and Survivance

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Authors: William E. Hartmann et al.

Publication Year: 2019

Last Updated:

Journal: American Psychologist

Keywords: Ethnicity; Minority Groups; Psychology; Historical Trauma; Colonization; Wellness; Indigeneity

 

Short Abstract: The American Indian historical trauma (HT) concept is an important precursor to racial trauma (RT) theory that reflects the distinct interests of sovereign Indigenous nations but shares much of the same promise and challenge. Here, that promise and challenge is explored by tracing HT’s theoretical development in terms of its anti-colonial ambitions and organizing ideas.

 

Abstract: The American Indian historical trauma (HT) concept is an important precursor to racial trauma (RT) theory that reflects the distinct interests of sovereign Indigenous nations but shares much of the same promise and challenge. Here, that promise and challenge is explored by tracing HT’s theoretical development in terms of its anti-colonial ambitions and organizing ideas. Three predominant modes of engaging HT were distilled form the literature (HT as a clinical condition, life stressor, and critical discourse), each informing a research program pursuing a different anti-colonial ambition (healing trauma, promoting resilience, practicing survivance) organized by distinct ideas about colonization, wellness, and Indigeneity. Through critical reflection on these different ambitions and dialogue of their organizing ideas, conflict between research programs can be mitigated and a more productive anti-colonialism realized in psychology and related health fields. Key recommendations emphasized clarifying clinical concepts (e.g., clinical syndrome vs. idiom of distress), disentangling clinical narratives of individual pathology (e.g., trauma) from social narratives of population adversity (e.g., survivance stories), attending to features of settler-colonialism not easily captured by heath indices (e.g., structural violence), and encouraging alignment of anti-colonial efforts with constructive critiques establishing conceptual bridges to disciplines that can help to advance psychological understandings of colonization and Indigenous wellness (e.g., postcolonial studies). This conceptual framework was applied to the RT literature to elaborate similar recommendations for advancing RT theory and the interests of ethnic/racial minority populations through engagement with psychology and related health fields.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6338218/

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article

Health effects of Indigenous language use and revitalization: a realist review

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Authors: D.H. Whalen et al.

Publication Year: 2022

Last Updated:

Journal: International Journal for Equity in Health

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Health Disparities; Language Use; Language Revitalization; Realist Review

 

Short Abstract: Background: Indigenous populations across the world are more likely to suffer from poor health outcomes when compared to other racial and ethnic groups. Although these disparities have many sources, one protective factor that has become increasingly apparent is the continued use and/or revitalization of traditional Indigenous lifeways: Indigenous language in particular. This realist review is aimed at bringing together the literature that addresses effects of language use and revitalization on mental and physical health.

 

Abstract: Background: Indigenous populations across the world are more likely to suffer from poor health outcomes when compared to other racial and ethnic groups. Although these disparities have many sources, one protective factor that has become increasingly apparent is the continued use and/or revitalization of traditional Indigenous lifeways: Indigenous language in particular. This realist review is aimed at bringing together the literature that addresses effects of language use and revitalization on mental and physical health. Methods: Purposive bibliographic searches on Scopus were conducted to identify relevant publications, further augmented by forward citation chaining. Included publications (qualitative and quantitative) described health outcomes for groups of Indigenous people who either did or did not learn and/or use their ancestral language. The geographical area studied was restricted to the Americas, Australia or New Zealand. Publications that were not written in English, Spanish, French, Portuguese or German were excluded. A realist approach was followed to identify positive, neutral or negative effects of language use and/or acquisition on health, with both qualitative and quantitative measures considered. Results: The bibliographic search yielded a total of 3508 possible publications of which 130 publications were included in the realist analysis. The largest proportion of the outcomes addressed in the studies (62.1%) reported positive effects. Neutral outcomes accounted for 16.6% of the reported effects. Negative effects (21.4%) were often qualified by such issues as possible cultural use of tobacco, testing educational outcomes in a student’s second language, and correlation with socioeconomic status (SES), health access, or social determinants of health; it is of note that the positive correlations with language use just as frequently occurred with these issues as the negative correlations did. Conclusions: Language use and revitalization emerge as protective factors in the health of Indigenous populations. Benefits of language programs in tribal and other settings should be considered a cost-effective way of improving outcomes in multiple domains.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://equityhealthj.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s12939-022-01782-6

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article

Growing From Our Roots: Strategies for Developing Culturally Grounded Health Promotion Interventions in American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian Communities

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Authors: Karina L. Walters, Michelle Johnson-Jennings, Sandra Stroud, et al.

Publication Year: 2020

Last Updated:

Journal: Prevention Science

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Data Collection; Development Programmatic Initiatives

 

Short Abstract: Given the paucity of empirically based health promotion interventions designed by and for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian (i.e., Native) communities, researchers and partnering communities have had to rely on the adaptation of evidence-based interventions (EBIs) designed for non-Native populations, a decidedly sub-optimal approach. Native communities have called for development of Indigenous health promotion programs in which their cultural worldviews and protocols are prioritized in the design, development, testing, and implementation.

 

Abstract: Given the paucity of empirically based health promotion interventions designed by and for American Indian, Alaska Native, and Native Hawaiian (i.e., Native) communities, researchers and partnering communities have had to rely on the adaptation of evidence-based interventions (EBIs) designed for non-Native populations, a decidedly sub-optimal approach. Native communities have called for development of Indigenous health promotion programs in which their cultural worldviews and protocols are prioritized in the design, development, testing, and implementation. There is limited information regarding how Native communities and scholars have successfully collaborated to design and implement culturally based prevention efforts "from the ground up." Drawing on five diverse community-based Native health intervention studies, we describe strategies for designing and implementing culturally grounded models of health promotion developed in partnership with Native communities. Additionally, we highlight indigenist worldviews and protocols that undergird Native health interventions with an emphasis on the incorporation of (1) original instructions, (2) relational restoration, (3) narrative-[em]bodied transformation, and (4) indigenist community-based participatory research (ICBPR) processes. Finally, we demonstrate how culturally grounded interventions can improve population health when they prioritize local Indigenous knowledge and health-positive messages for individual to multi-level community interventions.

 

Source: Link to Original Article.

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Source: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6502697/

Type of Resource: Peer-reviewed scientific article