Understanding the Impact of Addiction on Native American Families
Native American families have faced unique challenges when it comes to addiction and substance abuse. The intergenerational trauma caused by historical trauma, colonization, and forced assimilation has led to high rates of addiction in Native American communities. Substance abuse not only affects the individual but also has a significant impact on their family members and loved ones. In this blog post, we will explore the impact of addiction on Native American families and how they can find support and healing.
Historical Trauma and Addiction in Native American Communities
Illustration by Wenzdai Figueroa
Title: Effects of Historical Trauma on American Indian and Alaska Native Health Equity
Source: Medical News Today
Date accessed: March 14, 2023
Historical trauma refers to the collective trauma experienced by a group of people due to traumatic events that have occurred over time. Native Americans have experienced centuries of trauma due to colonization, forced relocation, and cultural genocide. These experiences have led to high rates of addiction and substance abuse in Native American communities. In a study conducted by the National Survey on Drug Use and Health, Native Americans had the highest rate of substance abuse compared to any other ethnic group in the United States.
Impact of Addiction on Family Members
Rhonda Packineau visits the grave of her daughter, Cheyenne, at a cemetery on the Fort Berthold Indian Reservation. A sports injury years ago led to Cheyenne’s pain pill addiction. She died of a fentanyl overdose in 2018 on the eve of rehab.
Source: Story by Beth Warren | Photos by Alton Strupp | Louisville Courier Journal
Source URL: https://www.courier-journal.com/in-depth/news/investigations/2021/09/22/detroit-drug-trafficking-in-north-dakota-targets-native-americans/7157107002/
Support and Healing for Native American Families
While addiction can have a profound impact on Native American families, it is essential to remember that there is hope for healing and recovery. The following are some ways in which family members of addicted individuals can find support and healing:
Seeking Counseling: Counseling can provide a safe space for family members to process their emotions and experiences related to addiction. It can also provide them with tools to better understand addiction and how to support their loved one in recovery.
Participating in Support Groups: Support groups such as Al-Anon and Nar-Anon can provide family members with a supportive community of people who understand what they are going through. These groups can also provide valuable information and resources on addiction and recovery.
Engaging in Traditional Healing Practices: Native American healing practices, such as smudging, sweat lodges, and talking circles, can provide family members with a sense of connection to their culture and spirituality. These practices can also help individuals to heal from the emotional and spiritual impact of addiction.
Educating Yourself: Learning more about addiction and its impact on Native American communities can help family members to better understand and support their loved one in recovery. There are many resources available online and in-person that can provide information and education on addiction and recovery.
Practicing Self-Care: It is essential for family members of addicted individuals to practice self-care and prioritize their own emotional and physical health. This may include engaging in activities that bring them joy, setting boundaries, and seeking support when needed.
The Medicine Wheel
The Medicine Wheel is depicted in this image, which features a circle divided into four quadrants. Each quadrant is colored differently and represents a different aspect of life, such as the physical, emotional, spiritual, and mental. The outer circle represents the cycle of life and the interconnectedness of all things. At the center of the wheel, there is a smaller circle with a dot, which represents the individual and their journey towards balance and harmony. The image is beautifully crafted and reflects the traditional teachings of the Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin.
Source: The Menominee Indian Tribe of Wisconsin (https://www.menominee-nsn.gov/) Date Accessed: 3/16/2023
Addiction can have a profound impact on Native American families, but it is important to remember that there is hope for healing and recovery. Seeking counseling, participating in support groups, engaging in traditional healing practices, educating oneself, and practicing self-care are all important steps that family members can take to find support and healing. It is also important for family members to remember that addiction is a disease and that it is not their fault. By understanding the impact of addiction on Native American families and seeking support and healing, family members can play a critical role in supporting their loved one's recovery.
Additionally, it is important for society as a whole to recognize and address the systemic issues that have contributed to addiction and substance abuse in Native American communities. This includes addressing historical trauma, improving access to healthcare and addiction treatment, and supporting cultural preservation and revitalization efforts.
By working together to address the root causes of addiction and providing support and resources for affected individuals and families, we can begin to heal the intergenerational trauma that has impacted Native American communities for centuries.
If you or a loved one need assistance with proper evidence-based culturally congruent addiction and mental health treatment, please call (877) 624-1656. Our trained behavioral health specialists are available 24/7 to help you or your loved one find an appropriate treatment solution.
