Self-Government Linked To Drop In Suicides

Self-Government Linked To Drop In Suicides

Friday, October 27, 2006 at 14:22

A study is underway to examine what appears to be a connection between Native self-government and suicides.

According to researchers at the University of British Columbia, suicide rates appear to be highest in Aboriginal communities with the least self-government — and they want to know why.

The scientific director at the Institute of Aboriginal Peoples’ Health says it’s no secret self-governing Native groups usually have a lot of economic development on the go. Dr. Jeff Reading notes that is one of the main determinants of health in Native communities.

However, Reading says there is a chance a community’s mindset changes for the better when residents know someone else isn’t making decisions for them.

Reading cautions that none of this has been proven yet, as the study is still underway.