Question: What do you think can be done to address the issue of self-harm and suicide among indigenous youth?

 

Atama Katama: In order to address the issue of self-harm and suicide among indigenous youth, I believe that we must first address historical trauma. Indigenous peoples often experience historical loss symptoms (e.g., depression, substance dependence, diabetes, dysfunctional parenting, and unemployment) as a result of the cross-generational transmission of trauma from historical losses primarily related to loss of their lands and territories as well as cultures and traditions.

 

Question: Why do you think many indigenous youth struggle with mental health issues?

 

Atama Katama: Struggles with mental health for indigenous peoples are often related to low self-esteem, loss of cultural identity, lack of positive role models, history of abuse and neglect, self-medication due to feelings of hopelessness, and loss of family and tribal connections.

 

Question: What factors do you think influence the mental health of indigenous youth?

 

Atama Katama: Since “it takes a village to raise a child,” I believe that families and communities have a strong influence on the mental health of indigenous youth. For much of their early life, youth are constantly surrounded by family, friends, neighbours and others in their community. These individuals play a critical role in the development of their character, habits and perspective. When their community suffers from disparities such as violence, poverty and drug and substance abuse, these occurrences will have an influence on their life and their growth as an individual. For many, the mental trauma suffered during their early childhood may have lasting effects well into adulthood, and the cycle may continue.

 

Question: What support systems do you feel you have/who do you turn to for social and emotional support?

 

Atama Katama: I believe being grounded in one’s indigenous culture can be a great support system in dealing with mental health and suicide challenges. Traditional customs and modes of learning often involve communal gathering and support. With a recent movement by many indigenous communities, like those in Hawaii and New Zealand, to re-implement indigenous languages, traditional customs, practices and modes of learning, indigenous youth can have more access to social and emotional support that is infused with traditional knowledge. However, I believe there is still a need for many communities to engage in such efforts.

 

Question: What social services do you feel you have for social and emotional support (whether in your school or in your community, etc.)?

 

Atama Katama: In the Pacific, there are many organizations whose sole purpose is to rehabilitate indigenous peoples through the reimplementation of language and culture. These organizations are reaching out into schools where teachers are being trained to infuse both western and traditional values in and out of the classroom. For many indigenous youth, school can be the place where they are able to run away from the problems that plague their lives at home. Therefore, for many, school can be the only place where youth are able to receive social and emotional support. I believe it should be a priority for schools to address these concerns.

 

Question: What would you want to say to other indigenous youth who are experiencing struggles with mental health?

 

Atama Katama: Looking back into our history can assist us in solving many of our modern day issues. Re-engaging with our indigenous cultures through the learning of language, traditions, practices and history better allows us address grave concerns such as mental health, self-harm and suicidal behaviour. In this process, indigenous youth can discover other likeminded individuals who are on the same journey: to reclaim their identity and culture as indigenous peoples. These individuals will become lifelong friends and a great support system in all aspects of life. Through the journey of self-discovery as indigenous peoples, it is possible to overcome all obstacles and move forward towards a brighter future. 

 

About the Contributor:

Atama Katama, from the Dusun Peoples of Tambunan, is the Local & International Relations Coordinator for PACOS Trust, a Community Development Organization in Sabah, Malaysia. He is also one of the Co-Chairs of the Global Indigenous Youth Caucus. Additionally, he is a rap artist, disc jockey & entertainer.