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Navigating Paths to Wellness: A Strengths-Based Photovoice Study Conducted with One First Nation in Southern Ontario, Canada

Author

Listed:
  • Bryan Tanner

    (Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle Suite 200, London, ON N6G 4X8, Canada)

  • Ningwakwe George

    (Saugeen District Senior School, Port Elgin, ON N0H 2C4, Canada)

  • Laura Jane Brubacher

    (Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle Suite 200, London, ON N6G 4X8, Canada
    Department of Population Medicine, University of Guelph, Guelph, ON N1G 2W1, Canada)

  • Melody E. Morton Ninomiya

    (Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle Suite 200, London, ON N6G 4X8, Canada
    Health Sciences, Wilfrid Laurier University, Waterloo, ON N2L 3C5, Canada)

  • Laura Peach

    (School of Public Health Sciences, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Sharon Bernards

    (Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle Suite 200, London, ON N6G 4X8, Canada)

  • Renee Linklater

    (Shkaabe Makwa, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada)

  • Julie George

    (Mental Health, Addiction and Violence Support Program, Kettle & Stony Point Health Services, Kettle & Stony Point First Nation, Lambton Shores, ON N0N 1J1, Canada)

  • Samantha Wells

    (Institute for Mental Health Policy Research, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, 100 Collip Circle Suite 200, London, ON N6G 4X8, Canada
    Campbell Family Mental Health Research Institute, Centre for Addiction and Mental Health, Toronto, ON M5S 2S1, Canada
    Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3B2, Canada
    Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Western University, London, ON N6A 3K7, Canada)

Abstract

Research on substance use challenges in First Nations communities is often deficit-focused and can reinforce paternalistic stereotypes that lead to further discrimination. In this article, we report on findings of a strengths-based Photovoice project done in collaboration with a First Nations’ community in southern Ontario, Canada to better understand experiences with substance use challenges in the community. We analyzed interview data collected with seventeen individuals who have lived experience or are supporting a loved one with lived experience with a substance use challenge. Participants described sources of strength that characterized their path to wellness, including strong family and social connections, cultural practices, identity, spirituality, day-to-day activities, and helpful supports and services. Furthermore, participants made several suggestions for improving services, including the need for integrated and flexible systems of care and trustful client-provider relationships. At its core, nurturing wellness involved a transformative process involving social and/or cultural connections. The stories shared by participants demonstrate the unique and varied strengths drawn from by individuals dealing with a substance use challenge.

Suggested Citation

  • Bryan Tanner & Ningwakwe George & Laura Jane Brubacher & Melody E. Morton Ninomiya & Laura Peach & Sharon Bernards & Renee Linklater & Julie George & Samantha Wells, 2022. "Navigating Paths to Wellness: A Strengths-Based Photovoice Study Conducted with One First Nation in Southern Ontario, Canada," IJERPH, MDPI, vol. 19(17), pages 1-17, September.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jijerp:v:19:y:2022:i:17:p:10979-:d:905164
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    References listed on IDEAS

    as
    1. Castleden, Heather & Garvin, Theresa & First Nation, Huu-ay-aht, 2008. "Modifying Photovoice for community-based participatory Indigenous research," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 66(6), pages 1393-1405, March.
    2. Switzer, S. & Guta, A. & de Prinse, K. & Chan Carusone, S. & Strike, C., 2015. "Visualizing harm reduction: Methodological and ethical considerations," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 133(C), pages 77-84.
    3. Richmond, C.A.M. & Ross, N.A. & Egeland, G.M., 2007. "Social support and thriving health: A new approach to understanding the health of indigenous Canadians," American Journal of Public Health, American Public Health Association, vol. 97(10), pages 1827-1833.
    4. Brady, Maggie, 1995. "Culture in treatment, culture as treatment. A critical appraisal of developments in addictions programs for indigenous North Americans and Australians," Social Science & Medicine, Elsevier, vol. 41(11), pages 1487-1498, December.
    Full references (including those not matched with items on IDEAS)

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