A Vision and Path: A 5-Year Quest to Aboriginal Youth

Health & Wellness

2010-2015

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Foreword

A Vision and Path: A 5-Year Quest to Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness 2010-2015 has been written and prepared under contract by BullMarket Consulting Ltd., and is the sole property of the Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation (TNRC). Authorization must be granted before any reproduction or distribution of this report. If you have any questions or require additional information please visit www.tnrc.ca or contact the TNRC at: 101-55 Selkirk Avenue Thompson, MB R8N 0M5 Phone: 204.677.0760 Fax: 204.677.0765 Website: www.tnrc.ca BullMarket Consulting Limited Tammy Lee Marche, President Box 940 Thompson, MB R8N 1N7 Phone: 204.679.5436 Email: tmarche@bullmarketconsulting.com Website: www.bullmarketconsulting.com

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Table of Contents

Foreword 2

Introduction 4 Background 6 Methodology 8 Key Findings 10 The Quest – Defined (Appendix A) 12

Aboriginal Youth in Thompson 13

Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey Results 15

Works Cited 28

Appendix A: 5-Year Quest 29

Appendix B: Focus Group Workshop Tool 43

Appendix C : Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey 47

Figure 1 Medicine Wheel Framework .........................................................6

Figure 2 Medicine Wheel Quadrant Content .............................................12

Figure 3 Aboriginal Identity Population....................................................13

Figure 4 Aboriginal Youth Population (ages 15-29) ..................................13

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Introduction In early 2010, the Thompson Neighbourhood Renewal Corporation (TNRC) received funding from the Thompson Urban Aboriginal Strategy (TUAS) to development and implement a five year Aboriginal youth health and wellness action plan. The TNRC contracted BullMarket Consulting Ltd., and through a shared work effort we began to gather information from several youth groups and organizations on the issues, strengths and challenges that Aboriginal youth face in Thompson today. Aboriginal youth service providers, youth councils, Elders and other youth groups and stakeholders provided valuable feedback that have become the basis of the action plan. The information gathering process consisted of a review of past research, 2006 Statistics Canada census data, focus groups, an Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey and an Aboriginal Youth Forum.

From this process, we have produced this report, A Vision and Path: A 5-Year Quest to Aboriginal Youth Health & Wellness 2010-2015, and a five year action plan (Appendix A), herein referred to as the Quest. The Quest will be implemented over the next five years through a collaborative effort between an Aboriginal youth executive council and the TUAS. It incorporates a Medicine Wheel Framework (defined in the Background), and is holistic in nature, culturally appropriate, inclusive, and driven by the views and opinions of youth and those who work closely with youth on a daily basis.

The focus group information was utilized to identify the 12 areas of focus (major themes) contained within the Quest, and in adherence to the Medicine Wheel Framework, each area of focus has been separated into the four human traits:

Mental 1. Education, Training and Economic Expansion 2. Addiction, Crime and Safe Environments 3. Communication and Collaboration

Physical 4. Social, Recreational and Youth Involvement 5. Inspiration, Art and Creativity 6. Health, Housing and Transportation

Emotional 7. Self-Esteem, Self-Worth and Self-Care 8. Child and Family Care 9. Counseling and Support Services

Spiritual 10. Cultural Awareness, Knowledge and Activities 11. Gender, Sexuality and Expression 12. Environmental Beautification and Preservation

The Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey was completed by 139 youth. Its purpose was to assess Aboriginal youth issues and challenges in Thompson. Overall, the results were encouraging and suggest that Aboriginal youth living in Thompson are generally healthy and in a state of wellness; for example, 83% were attending school at the time of the survey, and over seven in 10 (74%) either liked

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‘school very much’ or liked ‘school somewhat’; almost four in 10 (38%) stated that they ‘always/almost always’ felt happy, encouraged and hopeful during the past 30 days; almost nine in 10 (86%) felt that their general health was ‘good’, ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’; and over four in 10 (41%) felt that the social support of family, friends and coworkers is what ensures that they are healthy in their lives. Furthermore, the youth rely on family, relatives (aunts and uncles) and Elders to teach them about their culture (55%, 38%, and 33% respectively), and six in 10 (60%) have ‘never’ had thoughts of suicide in the past 12 months.

Nevertheless, according to survey results, youth are facing challenges in Thompson and the most common have been identified as:

‘Alcohol and drug use’ (32%);

‘lack of education and training opportunities’(28%); and,

‘housing’, ‘loss of culture’, and ‘other’ (i.e. jail, abusive boyfriend, dealing with parents alcohol use) (22%).

In essence, this report represents a comprehensive view of the issues, strengths and challenges facing Aboriginal youth in Thompson and presents a Quest to assist in addressing these issues.

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Background

Medicine Wheel Framework – Be the Voice: Determine Your Future

Be the Voice: Determine your Future, the name given to the projects information gathering process, was developed within a Medicine Wheel Framework. Using the wheel as a framework has encouraged us to be holistic in our evaluations and inclusive during the research process.

The medicine wheel is a sacred image and tool used by Aboriginal cultures all over the world and there are many interpretations of the medicine wheel just as there are many Aboriginal peoples; i.e. First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Nations. Therefore, we have developed our interpretation and beliefs surrounding the medicine wheel out of the teachings of our region in northern Manitoba. During the development of the framework, Elders were consulted and they assured us that there was no wrong way to interpret the medicine wheel.

General interpretation of the Medicine Wheel Framework (Figure 1):

The medicine wheel is circular with a cross extending within the circle dividing the wheel into four quadrants, each interacting and affecting the others and representing the four directions; north, east, south and west. The centre of the circle represents the individual inner-self and is understood as being in control of the four human traits that are separated into the four quadrants; mental, physical, emotional and spiritual. The four quadrants are within the circle, symbolizing the interconnectedness of all aspects of the human self. If one human trait is out of balance, the individual as a whole is considered to be out of balance, and as a result the individual is required to improve on the trait that is not in balance in order to achieve true health and wellness in his/her life.

For the purpose of the Quest, the same interpretation has been applied to the issues affecting youth but on a communal level; rather than looking at the impacts of the quadrants on the individual, the impact has now been placed on the community. Therefore, the four quadrants are required to be in balance before the community is in a state of health and wellness.

Figure 1 Medicine Wheel Framework

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Four Quadrants:

Directions: North, East, South, West

Colours: White, Yellow, Red, Black

Animals: Moose, Eagle, Bear, Wolf

Human traits: Mental, Physical, Emotional, Spiritual

As a framework, the medicine wheel helps us to better delve into communal understandings, and design outcomes based on a deeper and more unified foundation.

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Methodology The information gathering process consisted of a review of past research on Aboriginal youth in Thompson, 2006 Statistics Canada Census Data and three additional research areas:

Method Time Frame

Details

1. Focus Groups

February to April 2010

-147 people were consulted, representing 12 youth groups and organizations. -Participants were presented with a medicine wheel workshop tool and encouraged to list and discuss the issues Aboriginal youth face in Thompson, the assets that exist in the community to address youth issues, and to propose strategies to address the issues. (Appendix B, Focus Group Workshop Tool) -Groups consulted:

1. Safer Schools Network; 2. Youth service providers; 3. CEPS (Cultural Economical Political Social)

MKO youth leadership program; 4. UCN (University College of the North)

students; 5. Futures program students; 6. Juniper and Wapanohk Elementary Schools

grade 8 students; 7. YAC (Youth Aboriginal Council) RD Parker

Collegiate; 8. Youth Build students (Boys and Girls Club); 9. YAC conference; 10. MYS (MacDonald Youth Services) staff; and, 11. Elders.

-12 major themes were identified during the information analysis and have become the foundation of the Quest (Appendix A).

1. Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey (Appendix C)

February to April 2010

-139 youth ranging in age from 12 to 29, with a median age1 of 17 completed the survey. -Youth groups surveyed:

1. CEPS (Cultural Economical Political Social) MKO youth leadership program;

2. UCN (University College of the North) students;

3. Futures program students; 4. Juniper and Wapanohk Elementary Schools

grade 8 students;

1 The median age is the point where exactly one-half of the surveyed youth is older and the other half is younger.

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5. YAC (Youth Aboriginal Council) RDPC; 6. Youth Build students (Boys and Girls Club); 7. YAC conference; and, 8. Ma-Mow-We-Tak Friendship Centre

Conference. -Survey results have been used to identify the issues, strengths and challenges of Aboriginal youth in Thompson, and to support the selection of the 12 focus areas within the Quest. -The survey included both multiple choice and open-ended questions. All participants were ensured confidentiality, and first-level data analysis includes presentation of descriptive statistics (frequencies) for survey items in text and tables as appropriate. -The following should be noted with regard to the presentation of frequency data:

• Percentages are based on all responses for each item (i.e. ‘don’t know/refused’ and ‘no response’ are included in the calculations). Where applicable, ‘don’t know’ and “refused” are combined into one category.

• All percentages are rounded to the nearest whole number; percentages may not total to 100% due to rounding and multiple answer questions.

• Where applicable ‘refused’ are those who refused to answer that question.

2. Aboriginal Youth Forum

April 15, 2010

-80 to 100 youth attended the forum. -The purpose of the forum was to honour Aboriginal youth, review and validate the Quest as drafted, and attract interested youth to become part of an executive youth council that will coordinate, implement and oversee the 5-year Quest.

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Key Findings The focus group information was utilized to identify the 12 areas of focus contained within the Quest, and in adherence to the Medicine Wheel Framework, each focus area has been separated into the four human traits; mental, physical, emotional and spiritual. Focus groups were held with youth, service providers and Elders.

Survey Highlights and Aboriginal Youth Forum Support the Quest

For the most part, the Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey results and the Aboriginal Youth Forum activities can be utilized to support the selection of the 12 focus areas contained within the Quest.

Mental 1. Education, Training and Economic Expansion

• 38% of youth desire to get a ‘university degree’ or ‘masters degree’ as their highest level of education.

• 28% selected a ‘lack of education and training opportunities’ as a main challenge in their lives.

2. Addiction, Crime and Safe Environments • The survey found that ‘alcohol and drug use’ and ‘other’ (i.e. jail,

abusive boyfriend, dealing with parents alcohol use) were two of the main challenges in the lives of youth (32% and 22% respectively).

3. Communication and Collaboration • The top three strengths in the lives of youth were ‘family values’

(62%), ‘social connections’ (community groups and organizations) (35%), and ‘strong leadership’ (34%).

• Youth felt that they needed more support in school because they experienced ‘too many distractions’ (23%) and had ‘difficulty understanding the teacher’ (14%).

Physical 4. Social, Recreational and Youth Involvement

• 86% of youth felt their general health was ‘good’, ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’.

• 45% stated that ‘regular exercise/active in sports’ is what they do/have/feel in their life to ensure they are healthy.

5. Inspiration, Art and Creativity • During the forum, the youth were encouraged and actively

participated in the writing and production of a song based on youth motivation and encouragement. The song was recorded and named after the forum ‘Be the Voice: Determine your Future’. Several youth took advantage of the opportunity to use their own creative and musical talents; for example, during the forum, one youth sang a song he wrote on his guitar, and another rapped a song he wrote.

6. Health, Housing and Transportation • 86% of youth felt their general health was ‘good’, ‘very good’ or

‘excellent’.

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• Housing was identified as one of the top three challenges that youth face in their lives (22%).

Emotional 7. Self-Esteem, Self-Worth and Self-Care

• 38% of youth stated that they ‘always/almost always’ felt happy, encouraged and hopeful in the past 30 days, while 11% stated that they rarely did.

8. Child and Family Care • Over four in 10 (41%) felt that the social support of family,

friends and coworkers is what ensures that they are healthy in their lives and they rely on family, relatives (aunts and uncles) and Elders to teach them about their culture (55%, 38%, and 33% respectively).

• 10% selected the ‘other’ category with at least one stating that childcare was an area that they needed more support in school.

9. Counseling and Support Services • 35% of youth selected ‘social connections’ (community groups

and organizations), 30% selected ‘Elders’, and 17% selected both ‘school teachers’ and ‘community/health programs’ as the main strength in their lives.

Spiritual 10. Cultural Awareness, Knowledge and Activities

• The youth participated in the following traditional Aboriginal activities in the past 12 months; ‘fishing’ (34%), ‘hunting, trapping’ (21%), ‘berry picking or other food gathering’ (19%), and ‘snowshoeing’ (16%).

• 22% stated that ‘loss of culture’ was a main life challenge. The main strengths were Elders (30%), ‘use of First Nation language’ (24%), ‘awareness of First Nations culture’ (22%), and ‘traditional ceremonial activities (i.e. powwows) (21%).

11. Gender, Sexuality and Expression • Over one-third (37%) of youth said that ‘almost always’ life is

meaningful and they feel a purpose in life. • The Aboriginal Youth Forum became an opportunity for the youth

to express themselves; they created the lyrics, provided the vocals and helped produce a song they named after the forum, ‘Be the Voice: Determine your Future’.

12. Environmental Beautification and Preservation • 53% of the youth stated that they ‘almost always’ or

‘sometimes/occasionally’ appreciate the natural forces that exist in the universe.

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The Quest – Defined (Appendix A) The Quest contains elements and language that are uncommon when compared to other action plans. The Quest has been placed within a Medicine Wheel Framework and Figure 2 defines the components of each quadrant; a direction, a human aspect and an animal clan (refer to Figure 2).

Figure 2 Medicine Wheel Quadrant Content

The executive youth council in association with the TUAS, will lead, direct and implement the Quest, and clan helpers, consisting of the executive youth council and other volunteers, will carry out the practices required to complete the Quest.

Further, the Quest is formatted like other action plans but with the following interpretations:

It is important to remember that the medicine wheel framework provides a manner of organizing and making sense of the issues related to youth without isolating or compartmentalizing each issue as all issues and their solutions are interconnected and related to and effecting each other. This framework is diverse and celebrates the unity of our spiritual, mental, physical and emotional experiences.

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Aboriginal Youth in Thompson According to Statistics Canada 2006 Census, the Aboriginal population accounts for over one-third (36%) of the total population in Thompson; the highest population of Aboriginal people compared to any other city in Canada. The Aboriginal population is young with over one-quarter (27%) consisting of youth between the ages 15-29 (Figure 4).

The 2006 Aboriginal Population Profile for Thompson, produced by Statistics Canada, states that “Aboriginal youth aged 15-24 living in Thompson had slightly higher school attendance rates than their non-Aboriginal counterparts (56% versus 52%)”. However, “almost half (48%) of Aboriginal men and over a third (35%) of Aboriginal women aged 25-64 had less than a high school education, compared to 23% and 18%, respectively, of their non-Aboriginal male and female counterparts” (Statistics Canada).

Figure 3 Aboriginal Identity Population

Aboriginal Identity Non-Aboriginal Identity Total 4,915 8,490 13,405

Source: Statistics Canada 2006 Census

Figure 4 Aboriginal Youth Population (ages 15-29)

Source: Statistics Canada 2006 Census

The Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey results found that youth enjoy school and want an education; the majority (74%) of youth like school ‘very much’ or ‘somewhat’, and one-third (38%) would like to get either a ‘university degree’ or ‘masters degree’.

4915

1320

Aboriginal Identity Population

Aboriginal Youth age 15-29

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Selected survey findings; one-third (35%) of youth considered their general health ‘good’; over seven in 10 (71%) stated that ‘often’ or ‘sometimes’ someone shared traditional food with their household; 47% ‘never’ consulted a traditional healer, and 71% had ‘visited a doctor or health nurse’ within the last 12 months; 38% stated that they ‘always/almost always’ felt happy, encouraged and hopeful in the past 30 days; and, six in 10 (60%) ‘never’ had thoughts of suicide in the past 12 months.

The top three challenges that youth face in Thompson were identified as ‘alcohol and drug use’ (32%), ‘lack of education and training opportunities’ (28%), and ‘housing’, ‘loss of culture’ and ‘other’ (i.e. jail, abusive relationships, fighting, and daycare) were each individually selected by 22% of youth.

The top three strengths were ‘family values’ (62%), ‘social connections’ (community groups and organizations) (35%), and ‘strong leadership’ (34%).

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Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey Results 139 Aboriginal youth between the ages of 12 and 29 (median age 17)2 and living in Thompson completed the 27-question survey from February through April 2010. The survey questions were divided into the four quadrants of the medicine wheel and focused on the four human traits: mental, physical, emotional and spiritual.

Purpose: To assess Aboriginal youth related issues and challenges in Thompson.

Key Findings

86% attended school.

74% stated that they ‘like school very much’ or they ‘like school somewhat’.

38% stated that the highest level of education they would like to get is a ‘university degree’ or ‘masters degree’.

One-third (35%) stated that their general health was good.

38% stated that they ‘always/almost always’ felt happy, encouraged and hopeful.

60% ‘never’ had thoughts of suicide, 14% ‘sometimes’ and 2% ‘always/almost always’ had thoughts of suicide.

Family and Culture:

62% of youth selected ‘family values’ as the main strength in their lives.

Four in 10 (41%) stated that ‘good social supports (family, friends, co-workers)’ ensure that they are healthy in their lives; 45% selected ‘regular exercise/active in sports’.

Over half (55%) selected both ‘grandparents’ and ‘parents’ as those who help them to understand their culture. Over one-third (38%) selected ‘aunts and uncles’ and 33% selected ‘community Elders’

Attending cultural events was ‘somewhat important’ to over one-third (37%) of youth, and ‘very important’ to almost one-third (29%).

71% stated that ‘often’ or ‘sometimes’ someone shared traditional food with their household.

2 The median age is the point where exactly one-half of the surveyed youth is older and the other half is younger.

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48% stated that they have never consulted a traditional healer, and 71% stated that they had visited a doctor or health nurse within the last 12 months.

Main Challenges:

‘Alcohol and drug use’ (32%), ‘lack of education and training opportunities’ (28%), and ‘housing’, ‘loss of culture’, and ‘other’ (i.e. jail, abusive relationships, fighting and daycare) (22%) were stated as the main challenges the youth faced in their lives.

Mental

How do you feel about school?

% I like school very much 30 I like school somewhat 44 I dislike school somewhat 5 I dislike school very much 4 Unsure 14 Refused3 0 Over seven in 10 (74%) ‘like school very much’ or ‘like school somewhat’. Less than one in 10 (9%) ‘dislike school somewhat’ or ‘dislike school very much’.

In which areas do you feel you need more support in school? (Check all that apply)4

% I am fully supported 22 Reading 9 Writing 18 Math 38 Short attention span 6 Too many distractions 23 Difficulty understanding the teacher 14 Don’t know/Refused 14 Other: (Always sleeping in, childcare, social studies, science.)

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22% felt ‘fully supported’ in school, 38% felt they need more support in ‘math’, and 23% felt that there are ‘too many distractions’ in school.

3 ‘Refused’ identifies those survey respondents that refused to answer the question. 4 Respondents were encouraged to select all answers that applied to their situation, therefore percentages total over 100%.

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What is the highest level of education you would like to get?

% High school diploma 20 College diploma 11 Trade or vocational certificate 2 University degree 21 Professional degree 4 Masters degree 17 Doctorate degree (PhD) 5 Not sure 6 Don’t Know/Refused 7 Other: 4 Over two in 10 (21%) youth selected a ‘university degree’ as the highest level of education they would like to get.

Physical

In general, would you say your general health is:

Over eight in 10 (86%) youth felt their general health was ‘good’, ‘very good’ or ‘excellent’. 13% felt their general health was ‘fair’.

17

34

35

13

1

14

Percentage (%)

Excellent

Very good

Good

Fair

Poor

18

What do you do/have/feel in your life to ensure you are healthy? (Check all that apply.)5

% Good diet (low fat, fruits, vegetables, etc) 29 Reduced Stress 19 Good social supports (family, friends, co-workers)

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Good sleep/proper rest 32 Happy, content 31 Regular exercise/active in sports 45 In balance (physical, emotional, mental, spiritual)

21

Other: (music, breastfeed)

4

Don’t Know/Refused 14 45% of youth stated that ‘regular exercise/active in sports’ is what they do/have/feel in their life to ensure they are healthy, 41% selected ‘good social supports’, and 31% stated that they were ‘happy, content’.

In the past 12 months, how often did someone share traditional food with your household?

40% ‘sometimes’, 31% ‘often’, and 5% ‘never’ had someone share traditional food with their household.

5 Ibid.

31

40 5

22 27

Percentage (%)

Often

Sometimes

Never

Don't know

19

When did you last:

Never Within the last 12 months

1-2 years

Over 2 years ago

I don’t remember

Refused6

Consult a traditional healer

48 12 6 4 14 1

Visit a doctor or health nurse

0 71 7 1 16 0

Have counseling, psychological testing or any other mental health service

37 22 5 6 18 3

Almost half (48%) of youth never consulted a traditional healer, and seven in 10 (71%) visited a doctor or health nurse within the last 12 months.

In the past 12 months, which of the following have you participated in? (Mark all that apply.)7

% % Walking 65 Weights, exercise equipment 40 Hunting, trapping 21 Aerobics/fitness classes 11 Fishing 34 Canoeing/kayaking 11 Berry picking or other food gathering 19 Swimming 46 Running or jogging 50 Bowling 52 Hiking 21 Golf 4 Bicycling riding/mountain biking 27 Snowshoeing 16 Dancing (traditional, modern, aerobic, etc.)

23 Martial Arts 12

Skating 22 Gardening, yard work 18 Skiing/snowboarding 17 None 1 Competitive or team sports (e.g. hockey, basketball, baseball, etc.)

40 Other: (playing games, badminton, video games, horseback riding, white water rafting, mountain climbing)

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‘Walking’, ‘bowling’ and ‘running or jogging’ were the top three activities that the youth participated in the past 12 months (65%, 52%, and 50% respectively). 34% participated in ‘fishing’, 21% in ‘hunting, trapping’, 19% in ‘berry picking or other food gathering’, and 16% in ‘snowshoeing’.

7 Ibid.

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Emotional

During the past 30 days how often have you felt happy, encouraged, and hopeful?

Almost half (47%) of youth ‘sometimes’ and 38% ‘always/almost always’ felt happy, encouraged and hopeful during the past 30 days.

Have you had thoughts of suicide in the past 12 months?

60% of youth ‘never’ and 2% ‘always/almost always’ had thoughts of suicide in the past 12 months.

38

47

11 1

2

3

Percentage (%)

Always/almost always

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

Don't know

2 14

12

60

9

2

11

Percentage (%)

Always/almost always

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

Don't know

Refused

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What are the main challenges in your life? (Check all that apply.)8

% % Lack of education and training opportunities

28 Poor health 9

Alcohol and drug use 32 Lack of funding 14 Housing 22 Lack of control 12 Loss of culture 22 Gang activity 10 Lack of employment 19 Other:

(my boyfriend in jail, abusive boyfriend, no challenges, gone to jail, dealing with my parents alcohol use, fighting, family and social, abandonment of family, getting my son into daycare, girls/social)

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‘Alcohol and drug use’ (32%) and ‘lack of education and training opportunities’ (28%) were the two main challenges in the lives of youth.

What are the main strengths in your life? (Check all that apply.)9

% % Family values 62 Awareness of First Nations

culture 22

Social connections (community groups and organizations)

35 Community/health programs 17

Traditional ceremonial activities (e.g. powwow)

21 Elders 30

Good leisure/recreation facilities 14 Education and training opportunities

32

Use of First Nation language 24 Strong leadership 34 School teachers 17 Other:

(none, friends, my parents, split personality)

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The main strengths in the lives of youth were ‘family values’ (66%), ‘social connections’ (35%), ‘strong leadership’ (34%), and ‘Elders’ (30%).

8 Ibid. 9 Ibid.

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Have you had any of the following substances in the last 12 months (without a prescription)?

Never Once or twice

Monthly Weekly Daily or almost daily

Don’t know/Refused

Cannabis (marijuana, pot, grass, hash, etc.)

39 17 6 9 21 6

Cocaine (coke, crack, etc.)

78 10 1 0 1 6

Amphetamine type stimulants (crystal meth, speed, ecstasy, etc.)

73 8 1 3 0 7

Inhalants (solvents, glue, petrol, paint thinner, etc.)

87 4 0 0 0 6

Sedatives or sleeping pills (Valium, Serepax, Rohypnol, etc.)

70 14 1 1 1 6

Hallucinogens (LSD, acid, mushrooms, PCP, Special K, etc.)

79 9 0 1 1 5

Opiods (heroin, morphine, methadone, codeine, etc.)

86 2 1 0 1 4

Over two in 10 (21%) youth stated that they used Cannabis ‘daily or almost daily’ in the last 12 months. All other listed substances had ‘never’ been used by the majority (70% to 87%) of youth in the last 12 months.

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During the past 12 months, how often have you had 5 or more alcoholic beverages?

Four in 10 (40%) youth ‘never’ had five or more alcohol beverages during the past 12 months. Less than one in 10 (8%) had five or more alcohol beverages ‘more than once per week’ during the past 12 months.

40

10

9

1

12

14

8

3

25

Percentage (%)

Never

Once per month

Once per week

Everyday

Less than once a month

2-3 times per month

More than once per week

Refused

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Spiritual

Read each statement carefully and respond honestly by selecting the one that most represents your situation:

Almost always

Sometimes/ occasionally

Very seldom

Don’t know

I feel comfortable and at ease with my spiritual life.

31 30 6 27

There is a direct relationship between my personal values and daily actions.

22 30 11 33

When I get depressed or frustrated by problems, my spiritual beliefs and values give me direction.

18 27 16 32

Prayer, meditation, traditional ceremonies and/or quiet personal reflection is/are important in my life.

27 23 13 30

Life is meaningful to me, and I feel a purpose in life.

37 22 6 19

I have a strong sense of hope and optimism in my life and use my thoughts and attitudes in life-affirming ways.

27 32 5 30

I appreciate the natural forces that exist in the universe.

32 21 6 33

Over one-third (37%) stated that ‘almost always’ life is meaningful and they feel a purpose in life, 32% ‘almost always’ appreciate the natural forces that exist in the universe, and 31% ‘almost always’ feel comfortable and at ease with their spiritual life.

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Which language(s) do you use most often in your daily life? (Mark all that apply.)10

95% used the English language most often, and almost a third (33%) used an Aboriginal language most often in their daily lives.

10 Ibid.

95

1

33

8

41

Percentage (%)

English

French

Aboriginal Language

Other

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How important are traditional cultural events in your life?

66% felt that traditional cultural events are ‘somewhat important’ or ‘very important’.

Do you take part in the communities’ cultural events?

Over one-third (35%) of youth ‘sometimes’ and almost one-quarter (22%) ‘rarely’ take part in the communities’ cultural events.

29

37

8

4

19 1

Percentage (%)

Very important

Somewhat important

Not very important

Not important

Don't know

Refused

16

35 22

12

9

Percentage (%)

Always/almost always

Sometimes

Rarely

Never

Don't know

27

Who helps you in understanding your culture? (Check all that apply.)11

% % Grandparents 55 Community Elders 33 Parents (mother and/or father) 55 Other community members 20 Aunts and uncles 38 No one 5 Other relatives (siblings, cousins, etc.)

24 Don’t know/Refused 10

My friends 23 Other: 6 School teachers 19 ‘Grandparents’, ‘parents’, ‘aunts and uncles’ (55%, 55%, and 38% respectively) help youth to understand their culture.

11 Ibid.

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Works Cited

Statistics Canada. 2010. 2006 Aboriginal Population Profile for Thompson. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 89-638-X no. 2010003. Ottawa.

Statistics Canada. 2006. Thompson, Manitoba (Table). 2006 Aboriginal Population Profile. Census 2006. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 92-594-XWE. Ottawa. www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2006/dp-pd/prof/92-594/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&Geo1=CMA&Code1=640__&Geo2=PR&Code2=46&Data=Count&SearchText=Thompson&SearchType=Begins&SearchPR=01&B1=All&Custom= (accessed May 5, 2010).

Statistics Canada. 2006. Thompson, Manitoba (table). 2006 Community Profiles. 2006 Census. Statistics Canada Catalogue no. 92-591-XWE. Ottawa. www12.statcan.gc.ca/census-recensement/2006/dp-pd/prof/92-591/details/page.cfm?Lang=E&Geo1=CSD&Code1=4622026&Geo2=PR&Code2=46&Data=Count&SearchText=thompson&SearchType=Begins&SearchPR=01&B1=All&Custom= (accessed May 5, 2010).

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Appendix A: 5-Year Quest

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31

32

33

34

35

36

37

38

39

40

41

42

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Appendix B: Focus Group Workshop Tool

44

WorksheetAssets/Resources

Mental

Emotional Physical

Spiritual

Mental

Emotional Physical

Spiritual

Self-Respect

Self Reflection

Values/Morals/Ideals

Learning about other

spiritual beliefs and

values.

Knowledge

Awareness

Leadership

Point of View

Understanding

Learning and Education

Relationship Building

Empowerment

Confidence

Acceptance

Struggle

Ambition

Sharing

Awareness of Environment

Encouragement

Hands-On Skills

Nurturing

Health

Behaviour

Support

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WorksheetYouth Issues

Mental

Emotional Physical

Spiritual

Mental

Emotional Physical

Spiritual

Self-Respect

Self Reflection

Values/Morals/Ideals

Learning about other

spiritual beliefs and

values.

Knowledge

Awareness

Leadership

Point of View

Understanding

Learning and Education

Relationship Building

Empowerment

Confidence

Acceptance

Struggle

Ambition

Sharing

Awareness of Environment

Encouragement

Hands-On Skills

Nurturing

Health

Behaviour

Support

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WorksheetStrategies

Mental

Emotional Physical

Spiritual

Mental

Emotional Physical

Spiritual

Self-Respect

Self Reflection

Values/Morals/Ideals

Learning about other

spiritual beliefs and

values.

Knowledge

Awareness

Leadership

Point of View

Understanding

Learning and Education

Relationship Building

Empowerment

Confidence

Acceptance

Struggle

Ambition

Sharing

Awareness of Environment

Encouragement

Hands-On Skills

Nurturing

Health

Behaviour

Support

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Appendix C: Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey

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Aboriginal Youth Health and Wellness Survey

• Assess Aboriginal youth related issues and challenges in Thompson.

Personal Information

1. How old are you?

2. Are you male or female? □ Male □ Female

3. Do you attend school? □ Yes □ No 1 If so, what school do you attend?

____________________________________

Section: Mental (Mind)

4. How do you feel about school? □ I like school very much □ I dislike school somewhat □ I like school somewhat □ I dislike school very much □ Unsure □ Refused

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5. In which areas do you feel you need more support in school? Check all that apply. □ I am fully supported □ Too many distractions □ Reading □ Difficulty understanding the

teacher □ Writing □ Don’t know □ Math □ Refused □ Short attention span □ Other:

6. What is the highest level of education you would like to get? (e.g. what are your plans for the future in terms of education?) □ High school diploma □ Doctorate degree (PhD) □ College/CEGEP diploma □ Not sure □ Trade or vocational certificate □ Refused □ University degree □ Don’t know □ Professional degree □ Masters degree

□ Other:

Section: Physical

7. Including yourself, how many children and youth live in your household? Include all children under 18 years old who reside in the household at least half of the time. If none, mark ‘0’. 0-5 years 6-11 years 12-18 years

8. How many adults usually live in this household?Include all adults, 18 years and over, who reside in the household at least half of the time.

9. Do you have your own bedroom or personal space in your home? □ Yes □ No

10. In general, would you say your general health is: □ Excellent □ Very good □ Good □ Fair

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□ Poor

11. What do you do/have/feel in your life to ensure you are healthy? Check all that apply. □ Good diet (low fat, fruits and vegetables, etc.)

□ Regular exercise/active in sports

□ Reduced stress □ In balance (physical, emotional, mental, spiritual)

□ Good social supports (family, friends, co-workers)

□ Other:

□ Good sleep/proper rest □ Don’t know □ Happy, content □ Refused

12. In the past 12 months, how often did someone share traditional food with your household? □ Often □ Sometimes □ Never □ Don’t know □ Refused

13. When did you last: Never Within

the last 12 months

1-2 years ago

Over 2 years ago

I don’t remember

Refused

Consult a traditional healer

Visit a doctor or health nurse

Have counselling, psychological testing or any other mental health service

14. In the past 12 months, which of the following have you participated in? Mark all that apply. □ Walking □ Weights, exercise equipment □ Hunting, trapping □ Aerobics/fitness classes □ Fishing □ Canoeing/kayaking □ Berry picking or other food gathering

□ Swimming

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□ Running or jogging □ Bowling □ Hiking □ Golf □ Bicycling riding/mountain biking □ Snowshoeing □ Dancing (traditional, modern, aerobic, etc.)

□ Martial Arts

□ Skating □ Gardening, yard work □ Skiing/snowboarding □ None □ Competitive or team sports (e.g hockey, basketball, baseball, etc.)

□ Other:

15. During the past week, how much time in an average day did you spend watching TV, working at your computer, reading or playing video games? Less

than 30 minutes

30 minutes to an hour

1 hour to 1 ½ hours

More than 1 ½ hours

Don’t know

Refused

Watching TV

Working at a computer

Reading Playing video games

Section: Emotional

16. During the past 30 days how often have you felt happy, encouraged, and hopeful?

17. Have you had thoughts of suicide in the past 12 months?

□ Always/almost always □ Never □ Sometimes □ Don’t Know □ Rarely □ Refused

□ Always/almost always □ Never □ Sometimes □ Don’t Know □ Rarely □ Refused

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18. What are the main challenges for you in your life?

Check all that apply. □ Lack of education and training opportunities

□ Poor health

□ Alcohol and drug use □ Lack of funding □ Housing □ Lack of control □ Loss of culture □ Gang activity □ Lack of employment □ Other:

19. What are the main strengths in your life? Check all that apply. □ Family values □ Awareness of First Nations

culture □ Social connections (community groups and organizations)

□ Community/health programs

□ Traditional ceremonial activities (e.g powwow)

□ Elders

□ Good leisure/recreation facilities □ Education and training opportunities

□ Use of First Nation language □ Strong leadership □ School teachers □ Other:

20. Have you had any of the following substances in the last 12 months (without a prescription)? For each substance, please select the answer that best describes your usage. Neve

r Once or twice

Monthly

Weekly

Daily or almost daily

Don’t know

Refused

Cannabis (marijuana, pot, grass, hash, etc.)

Cocaine (coke, crack, etc.)

Amphetamine type stimulants (crystal meth, speed, ecstasy, etc.)

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Inhalants (solvents, glue, petrol, paint thinner, etc.)

Sedatives or sleeping pills (Valium,Serepax, Rohypnol, etc.)

Hallucinogens (LSD, acid, mushrooms, PCP, Special K, etc.)

Opiods (heroin, morphine, methadone, codeine, etc.)

21. During the past 12 months, how often have you had 5 or more alcoholic beverages? Please select one that best describes your habits.

□ Never □ Less than once a month □ Once per month □ 2 – 3 times per month □ Once per week □ More than once per week □ Everyday □ Refused

Section: Spiritual

22. Read each statement carefully and respond honestly by selecting the one that most represents your situation: Almost

always Sometimes/ occasionally

Very seldom

Don’t know

I feel comfortable and at ease with my spiritual life.

There is a direct relationship between my personal values and daily actions.

When I get depressed or frustrated by problems, my spiritual beliefs and values give me direction.

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Prayer, meditation, traditional ceremonies and/or quiet personal reflection is/are important in my life.

Prayer, meditation, and/or quiet personal reflection is/are important in my life.

Life is meaningful for me, and I feel a purpose in life.

I have a strong sense of hope and optimism in my life and use my thoughts and attitudes in life-affirming ways.

I appreciate the natural forces that exist in the universe.

23. Which language(s) do you use most often in your daily life? Mark all that apply. □ English □ French □ Aboriginal language □ Other

24. Can you understand or speak an Aboriginal language?

□ Yes □ No □ Don’t know □ Refused

25. How important are traditional cultural events in your life? Traditional cultural events vary, but may include powwows, sweat lodges, and community feasts. □ Very important □ Not important □ Somewhat important □ Don’t know □ Not very important □ Refused

26. Do you take part in the communities’ cultural events? □ Always/almost always □ Never □ Sometimes □ Don’t Know □ Rarely □ Refused

27. Who helps you in understanding your culture? Check all that apply.

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□ Grandparents □ Community elders □ Parents (mother and/or father) □ Other community members □ Aunts and uncles □ No one □ Other relatives (siblings, cousins, etc.)

□ Don’t know

□ My friends □ Refused □ School teachers □ Other: Thank you for participating in this survey!