Grant: Catalyst Grant: Indigenous Approaches to Wellness Research

This project is a collaboration between Anishinaabe communities and organizations in Northern Ontario and academic researchers with long-standing research relationships. Jointly we aim to do the following: 1) to study the Indigenous concept of wellness, called mino-bimaadiziwin from the perspective of Indigenous people using Indigenous methods. Mino-bimaadiziwin is a holistic concept of health focused on leading a good life. It goes much beyond the western individualistic physically-focused model of health. We will study this concept in close collaboration with traditional Indigenous healing services providers and knowledge holders. 2) once we have documented the concept of wellness as it is understood today, we will engage health and mental health services providers to explore strategies to integrate with traditional Indigenous healing services more effectively using mino-bimaadiziwin as a guiding principle; and 3) to develop ways to track improvements in Indigenous wellness based on the concept of mino-bimaadiziwin. These topics have been identified in several health services reports as a key priority by Indigenous health authorities and communities on Manitoulin Island. Our research will provide important insights into how traditional healing services, mental health, and primary care services can align with the aspirations for wellness in Indigenous communities. We hope to specifically engage with Indigenous people affected by the Indian residential school system. Findings will provide important insight into how Indigenous concepts of wellness might be incorporated into future Indigenous health research. In addition, they will have important implications for health services administration and heath service evaluation.