Research summary
The lasting effects of colonialism, economic disparities and extractive environmental violence take a toll on the mental health of Indigenous youth, sometimes resulting in suicidal thoughts and behaviours. As Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Studies of Health, Suicide and Environmental Justice, Dr. Jeffrey Ansloos is exploring the connection between political and environmental factors—such as industrial development, food and housing insecurity, pollution, climate change, and lack of vital infrastructure—and suicide in Indigenous communities.
He and his research team are exploring these issues through collaborative partnerships with Indigenous communities. They are also examining the potential for Indigenous political strategies, including direct action, sociolegal advocacy and harm reduction, to enhance suicide prevention. By using multiple data collection methods, including case studies, narrative inquiry and action research involving youth, Ansloos is accelerating the field of Indigenous studies of suicide and advancing health justice for Indigenous communities worldwide.