HOOPS AND HURDLES: EXPLORING BARRIERS TO MENTAL HEALTHCARE FOR INDIGENOUS PEOPLES IN THE PEACE REGION

Abstract

Securing mental healthcare services in Canada may be a challenging task for Indigenous Peoples who access publicly funded services in rural communities. Whether mental healthcare is culturally appropriate, accessible, and inclusive is determined by the healthcare institution, and the frontline workers who provide services. This research project sought to explore frontline mental healthcare practices delivered by Northern Health mental healthcare professionals, in the Peace Region, British Columbia (BC). This project clarified how institutions such as Northern Health, organize, direct, and dictate the work of frontline professionals relating to decolonizing and culturally safe work practices. The project provided insight for organizations and mental health professionals how service provision may improve for Indigenous Peoples and communities in the Peace Region. The findings of this study advocate for enhanced Indigenous community collaboration, clarifying decolonizing practice guidelines, and creating opportunities to advance ongoing cultural competency.