Native Americans Combat the Suicide Spirit

Native Americans Combat the Suicide Spirit: ...The Wiconi Ohitika project is one of several tribal college and mainstream university efforts to address the high rates of suicide among American Indians. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the suicide rate for American Indians and Alaska natives is more than twice the national average for other ethnic groups. It is the second-leading cause of death behind unintentional injuries and accidents for Indian youths aged 15 to 24.

The complex reasons behind these statistics dictate that suicide prevention strategies must recognize American Indians’ unique history and need to be effective, say American Indian mental health providers and researchers.