Indigenous Experiences in Wellness and Suicide Prevention. Event Report (Montreal, October 25th & 27th 2017)

Abstract

[Preface]. This meeting marks a key intervention of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO)’s Canada Biennial Work Plan for 2016-2017, which guides the technical cooperation between PAHO and Health Canada. The meeting was organized by the Mental Health and Substance Use Unit of PAHO, in collaboration with the Montreal WHO/PAHO Collaborating Centre for Research and Training in Mental Health, several programs within PAHO and partners from participating countries. The aim of the conference was to bring together members of Indigenous communities from across the Americas to exchange experiences, perspectives and tools on wellness and suicide prevention. The meeting is an important step in developing our knowledge and understanding about Indigenous health, wellness and suicide prevention. PAHO’s Mental Health team started work in this area several years ago. For this meeting, we wanted to listen to and learn from Indigenous community members across the Region on their approaches to wellness and suicide prevention. I believe this goal was attained.