In Connection 6, you will learn about the commonalities in wellness models from a First Nations’ perspective. Indigenous knowledge is not static. Several models exist to understand First Nation perspectives on health and wellness. However, models also have commonalities because they share a similar worldview.

The First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework 

The First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework (FNMWCF) is an example of a model with similarities to others. The framework will be used to illustrate the common characteristics of Indigenous wellness models. The FNMWC is an essential framework to explore for those working with Anishinaabe communities because it is strengths-based. It represents “a wellness approach that is grounded in culture. It is based on the idea that we all have a responsibility to support wellness … attending to wellness through all stages of life” (Thunderbird Foundation, 2022).

This framework will be used to illustrate the characteristics common to other Indigenous wellness models.

Image Description: First Nations Mental Wellness Continuum Framework [Doc]

Wellness is … Wholistic

Refer to the centre circle of the model and the four directions of purpose, hope, belonging, and meaning.

“Mental wellness is a balance of the mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional. This balance is enriched as individuals have: purpose in their daily lives whether it is through education, employment, care giving activities, or cultural ways of being and doing; hope for their future and those of their families that is grounded in a sense of identity, unique indigenous values, and having a belief in spirit; a sense of belonging and connectedness within their families, to community, and to culture; and finally a sense of meaning and an understanding of how their lives and those of their families and communities are part of creation and a rich history” (Thunderbird Foundation, 2022, p. 1).

Wellness is … Fluid, Dynamic and Adaptable

Wellness is not fixed or an end-goal. This Framework represents a continuum of “several layers and elements foundational to supporting First Nations mental wellness.” Each layer represents a moving target with ever-changing contexts and situations. A key quote from the Framework Summary Report illuminates how wellness is dependent on knowing how to maintain balance and the ability to adapt within these dynamic and complex environments:

“The Continuum aims to support all individuals across the lifespan, including those with multiple and complex needs. The centre of the model refers to the interconnection between mental, physical, spiritual, and emotional behaviour—purpose, hope, meaning, and belonging. A balance between all of these elements leads to optimal mental wellness” (Thunderbird Foundation, 2022, p. 2).

Wellness is … Relational and Connected to Culture, Language and Traditions

Refer to the relational components in the second ring that consist of kinship connections to clan, elders, and community. Culture as Foundation is a theme in the outermost ring that permeates the entire Framework.

“First Nation languages, culture, and teachings are tied to the past, the present, and the future—they are the steppingstones to a brighter tomorrow. First Nations individuals, families, and communities have a wealth of knowledge from which to draw to know how to live in balance, to care for themselves and others, and to restore balance when it is lost” (Thunderbird Foundation, 2022, p. 1).

Wellness is … Connected to the Land

Refer to Culture as Foundation in the outermost ring. Land plays a prominent role in connecting Indigenous ways of living. Land is also referenced in the model as ‘Land and Resources’ and ‘Environmental Stewardship’ in the eighth ring which focuses on the Indigenous Determinants of Health critical to supporting and maintaining wellness.

“Despite the impacts of colonization, many First Nations people have maintained their cultural knowledge in their ways of living (with the land and with each other)” (Thunderbird Foundation, 2022, p. 1).

Wellness is … Based in Strength and Resiliency

Refer to Culture as Foundation in the outermost ring. This quote highlights that maintaining cultural knowledge is grounded in both strength and resilience of the Indigenous peoples.

“The cultural values, sacred knowledge, language, and practices of First Nations are essential determinants of individual, family, and community health and wellness. Despite the impacts of colonization, many First Nations people have maintained their cultural knowledge in their ways of living (with the land and with each other) and in their language. These foundations have ensured First Nations people have strength, laughter, and resilience. Cultural knowledge about mental wellness does not narrowly focus on “deficits”. Rather, it is grounded in strengths and resilience. Culture is the foundation for a “good life”, and the knowledge contained within culture applies across the life span and addresses all aspects of life” (Thunderbird Foundation, 2022, p. 1).

Wellness is … Rooted in Self-Determination

Refer to ‘Self-Determination’ and ‘Governance’ in the sixth ring. The sixth ring focuses on the elements supporting both the health system and First Nation wellness.

“First Nations control of services … community development, ownership, and capacity building are significant factors which must be taken into account in enhancing First Nations mental wellness. For example, community ownership of local programs and infrastructure can have a positive impact on wellness” (Thunderbird Foundation, 2022, p. 6).

Commonalities in First Nations Wellness Models

To move on to Connection 7, click on the “Next: Connection 7: Grounding Learning in an Anishinaabe Perspective →” button at the bottom right hand corner of this page.

References

Thunderbird Partnership Foundation. (2022). First Nations mental wellness continuum framework. https://thunderbirdpf.org/fnmwc/​

Peltier, C., Manankil-Rankin, L., McCullough, K., & McLeod-Shabogesic, L. (2022). Wellness and wiidooktaadyang: Moving Anishinaabe knowledge into action [Manuscript submitted for publication]. Faculty of Education and Professional Studies, Nipissing University.