Work

What Makes Us Strong: Urban Aboriginal Perspectives on Wellness and Strength

Year: 1997

Type: article

Abstract: The limitations of a needs orientation for aboriginal mental health planning are evaluated in terms of the discrepancy between First Nations and western medical paradigms of health. We propose an alternative approach that focuses on how aboriginal people conceptualize wellness and describe their strengths. This provides a focus for initiatives that promote well-being by enhancing strengths rather than concentrating solely on deficits. We illustrate this approach by highlighting the indigenous knowledge of urban First Nations people in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside neighbourhood. We conclude that supporting existing strengths promotes wellness in holistic, culturally appropriate, and empowering ways.

Source: Canadian Journal of Community Mental Health

DOI: 10.7870/cjcmh-1997-0005

Authors: Collin P. Van Uchelen, Sara Florence Davidson, Seanna V. A. Quressette, Charles R. Brasfield, Lou H. Demerais

Institutions: University of British Columbia, Vancouver Native Health Society

Language: English

Topic: Indigenous Health, Education, and Rights

Subfield: Health

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: bronze

OpenAlex ID: W2317719989

FWCI: 0.857

Cites:

Cited by: 63

Related to: 10