Grant: Project Grant

Men's mental health is influenced by social and cultural ideas about masculinity that encourage toughness, self-reliance, and holding back emotions. These challenges are compounded for Red River Métis (RRM) men who have endured colonization, intergenerational trauma, loss of cultural traditions and identity. The lasting impacts of these experiences have contributed to higher rates of mental health challenges among RRM compared to other Manitobans. Yet, RRM men are less likely to talk about their health or access mental health supports. This gap is driven by stigma and limited access to culturally relevant information and services. For RRM men, healing is often described as a journey of resilience that involves confronting grief and trauma while rebuilding connections to culture. This research aims to improve mental health outcomes for RRM men by understanding and addressing the barriers they face, if and when they seek help. We will work closely with the RRM Community to hold group discussions that explore their experiences and needs. These conversations will use a respectful and culturally guided approach developed by a RRM researcher to ensure community knowledge shapes the project. We will also analyze administrative health data to learn how RRM men currently use mental health services to identify where gaps exist. By combining community voices with administrative health data, this project will improve mental health for RRM men, support the overall wellness of the RRM community, and guide the healthcare system to provide more culturally safe and accessible care. Elders will be involved to support healing and strengthen cultural connections. The findings will inform policies and health services to better meet the needs of RRM men and promote healing, resilience, and long-term mental wellness for the RRM community.