“Suicides and suicide attempts continue to have a serious and devastating impact on the
– CHRISTINE VENERY, SRMT MENTAL HEALTH DIRECTOR.
community of Akwesasne,”
According to a press release, the Saint Regis Mohawk Tribe’s (SRMT) mental health program was awarded two federal grants totaling almost $3 million from Indian Health Services for the next five years that will provide safer care for community members at risk of suicide.
Drug and alcohol addiction, as well as mental health disorders, bring about higher rates of
suicidal behavior, family dysfunction, school dropout, unemployment, and criminal behavior.
Since 2003, there have been 46 suicide attempts in Akwesasne, with 4 deaths in 2020 and 2021 alone due to opioid overdose. It’s an alarming crisis, as suicide has become the second leading cause of death for American Indians/Alaska Natives.
“I am pleased that the grant award will help the SPIP Program to enhance care coordination with community coalitions and established networks, expand our behavioral health and referral services, and continue to help us implement culturally appropriate approaches that encourage help-seeking behavior,” says SRMT Health Services Director Michael Cook. He added, “we have found that the incorporation of traditional practices, such as smudging, language, storytelling, and ceremonies; have helped emphasize that asking for help is a sign of strength.”
The COVID-19 Pandemic has been an added stressor on community members; with the anxiety of becoming ill, the emotional cost of social distancing, and attending school or working remotely has increased social isolation and behavioral health disorders. It has contributed to increased depression and substance abuse and has also raised the risk of suicide attempts.
“I extend my congratulations and appreciation to the Tribe’s Mental Health Services Team,
Grants and Contracts, Tribal Leadership, and others who helped secure this much-needed
funding to address suicides in the Akwesasne community, as losing just one community member has been one too many,” shared SRMT Executive Director Tsiorasa Barreiro.
If you or someone you know are at risk of suicide, please call SRMT Mental Health Services at (518) 358-3145 during normal business hours, or after-hours at (518) 651-4475. Individuals can also call the national Suicide Prevention Hotline at (800) 273-TALK (8255). A 24/7 Crisis Text Line is also available by texting “GOT5” to 741741.
