MP Lori Idlout Recognizes Mandala Institute's Impact on Inuit Mental Health Across Canada

Parliamentary Recognition of Our Indigenous-Led Mental Health Work

We're very excited that Lori Idlout, Member of Parliament for Nunavut, has publicly recognized our work through the Mandala Institute for Holistic Mental Health supporting Inuit communities across Canada.

Speaking in Parliament, MP Idlout stated: "There are indigenous-led services that are making a huge difference with the people they help. An Inuit mental health project funded by the Mandala Institute for Holistic Mental Health is beginning to offer Inuit-led services. This institute has a huge impact on Inuit across Canada."

Addressing the Need for Decolonized Mental Health Programs

MP Idlout emphasized the urgent need for indigenous mental health programs: "Inuit elders, activists and advocates have long been calling for Inuit-specific mental health training programs.

These programs need to be available to Inuit across Canada. Decolonized mental health programs are needed to address mental health crises that are leading to increased depression, addiction and suicide rates."

Our "Heal the Healer" Program Vision

MP Idlout highlighted our innovative training approach: "The Mandala Mental Health funded project is looking into piloting a 'Heal the Healer' program. This program would train Inuit to support their communities with expertise in mental health."

This program builds indigenous mental health capacity from within communities themselves, recognizing that the most effective healing happens when it's led by people who understand the cultural context.

The Call for Government Support of Indigenous-Led Services

Her remarks emphasized why government funding of indigenous mental health programs is essential: "Projects like these need to be funded. There need to be financial resources dedicated for indigenous-led mental health practices. These services need to be recognized by the government to make sure the burden is not on Inuit. We cannot continue to ask indigenous community members to volunteer their time and space because the government does not recognize their expertise."

Learn more about our culturally responsive mental health care through Toronto Hypnotherapy and our community programming through the Mandala Institute for Holistic Mental Health.