November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to honor the rich history, culture, and contributions of Indigenous peoples across the U.S. Throughout the month, we celebrate the vibrant traditions, languages, and stories of Native communities and ensure these legacies endure for generations to come. Native cultures are evolving in cities, rural areas, tribal communities, and nations across the U.S.
While we celebrate, we must also acknowledge and address the significant health disparities that disproportionately affect American Indian and Alaska Native populations. Indigenous communities face some of the highest rates of mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and related mortality in the United States.
Health Disparities in Indigenous Communities
· Suicide Rates: Native communities experience the highest suicide rates of any minority group in the U.S., with rates continuing to rise since 2003.
· Substance Use Disorders: Rates of illicit drug and alcohol use, including methamphetamine use and overdose, are alarmingly high.
· Alcohol-Related Deaths: From 2016 to 2020, alcohol-related deaths among Native populations occurred at a rate nearly five times higher than the U.S. average.
· Drug Overdose Deaths: In 2020, overdose death rates for American Indian and Alaska Native individuals reached 42.5 per 100,000—higher than any other racial or ethnic group.
Due to these disparities, American Indian and Alaska Native individuals experience serious psychological distress at a rate 2.5 times higher than the general population.
Advancing Behavioral Health in Tribal Communities
In response to these challenges, tribal communities are taking on more ownership of behavioral health services through the Indian Self-Determination and Education Assistance Act. This shift has transformed behavioral healthcare delivery:
· Over 50% of mental health programs and over 90% of alcohol and substance abuse programs are now tribally operated.
· Care has transitioned from a centralized Indian Health Service (IHS) model to a more diverse network of services provided by federal, tribal, and urban Indian health programs.
This evolution reflects the growing commitment to culturally tailored care that empowers Native communities to address behavioral health challenges in ways that resonate with their unique cultural and community needs.
Join the Conversation
Let’s honor Indigenous traditions while working to address the health disparities affecting Native communities. Together, we can build a future where everyone can access the care and support they need to thrive.
Learn more by visiting Indian Health Service | IHS
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