November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich histories, cultures, and contributions of Indigenous peoples across the United States. It’s also a time to reflect on the resilience and strength of Native communities — and the importance of mental health and healing within them.
As this month often coincides with Thanksgiving, it offers an opportunity for deeper reflection — not only on gratitude and family but also on truth, awareness, and collective well-being.
The Power of Story, Connection, and Healing
For many Indigenous peoples, mental health is not separate from spiritual, emotional, and communal health. Healing is deeply rooted in connection — to the land, to ancestors, to tradition, and to one another.
This holistic approach reminds us that well-being is more than managing symptoms; it’s about restoring balance between body, mind, spirit, and community.
At the same time, Native communities continue to face mental health challenges linked to historical trauma, loss of cultural identity, and systemic inequities. According to the National Indian Council on Aging, Indigenous adults experience psychological distress at higher rates than the general population, yet access to culturally relevant mental health care remains limited.
Honoring this month means recognizing both the strength of Native peoples and the need for greater understanding and support for mental wellness in Indigenous communities.
What We Can All Learn from Indigenous Wellness Practices
Native traditions often center on connection, mindfulness, and gratitude — principles that can benefit anyone striving for mental balance.
Some practices include:
- Storytelling as a way to process emotions, share wisdom, and strengthen identity.
- Spending time in nature, which restores calm and perspective.
- Gathering in community, emphasizing belonging and shared responsibility.
- Ceremonies and rituals that acknowledge both struggle and resilience.
These approaches remind us that healing happens not just within us, but between us.
Mental Health During the Holidays
As Thanksgiving approaches, this season can bring up mixed emotions — joy, gratitude, reflection, and sometimes grief or tension. Taking care of your mental health means allowing space for all of it.
Whether you’re reconnecting with family, reflecting on heritage, or finding new ways to practice gratitude, remember:
- Pause and breathe. Slowing down helps bring awareness and peace.
- Honor your story. Your history and experiences are part of your strength.
- Practice gratitude intentionally. It’s not about ignoring hardship, but noticing small moments of meaning and care.
- Seek connection. Community — in whatever form it takes — is one of the most powerful protectors of mental health.
This November
Native American Heritage Month invites us to celebrate resilience and reflect on how honoring culture and community strengthens mental well-being.
It’s a reminder that gratitude and healing are most powerful when they are shared — when we listen, learn, and support one another’s journeys toward balance and wholeness.
Let’s move through this season with awareness, respect, and connection — to the land, to history, and to each other.
If You or Someone You Know Needs Support
The Native American and Alaska Native Hope Line offers free, confidential support 24/7.
Call 1-866-488-7386 or visit www.samhsa.gov/find-help/national-helpline
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