Aboriginal populations

First Nation, Inuit and Métis  people

The loss of traditional values, language and family and community kinship due to colonization, residential schools and other historical events has seriously affected the physical, emotional, mental and spiritual health of Aboriginal people in Canada. Aboriginal populations both on and off reserves experience high levels of poverty, chronic disease, disability, sexual abuse, suicide, Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder, homelessness, family violence and other social issues social issues. Healing is supported by Elders who pass on their knowledge and wisdom to keep their culture and traditional healing methods alive so they may restore and balance health, wellness and spirituality for future generations.

Where can you go for more information?

Health Nexus resources

	Aboriginal Perspectives on Health and Wellness  Part 1 (PDF) and Part 2 (PDF). These slide presentations provide a good overview of the main historical events and issues that affect Aboriginal Health.
	Why am I Poor: First Nations Child Poverty in Ontario (PDF)
	The Sacred Journey from Preconception to Parenting for First Nations Families in Ontario (PDF)
	A Sense of Belonging : Supporting Healthy Child Development in Aboriginal Families (PDF)
	Sacred tobacco, sacred children – Video for Aboriginal parents and caregivers discusses the impact of second-hand smoke on young families.

Other resources

Documents

• Understanding the health of Indigenous peoples in Canada: key methodological and conceptual challenges
• Aboriginal Healing Foundation - Research Series
• The Healthy Aboriginal Network
• Research and Reports and Traditional Teachings
• Come Meet the Challenge! Physical Activities and Nutrition Initiatives in Aboriginal Communities: Resource Guide

Websites

• National Collaborating Centre for Aboriginal Health
• Health Canada - First Nations & Inuit Health
• Ontario Federation of Indian Friendship Centres
• Aboriginal Peoples Television Network (APTN)

Videos

• Civilized to Death, an APTN Investigates series on social determinants of health and Aboriginal populations. (2012)
  Civilized to Death, Part 1
  Civilized to Death, Part 2