Empathic Counseling in Indigenous Communities

Over the years, we’ve observed several issues regarding commonly used suicide assessment and intervention techniques utilized in Indian Country. In our estimation, typical approaches to treat suicidal individuals fall short in meeting the unique needs of Tribal communities.

Namely, we believe most of the clinical paradigms developed by western structures have not integrated Indigenous values and belief systems into their framework. For example, most suicide awareness campaigns advance messaging which encourages suicidal individuals to take initiative by “advocating for oneself, reaching out, and seeking help.”

On surface level, this notion is well intended. However, it also assumes that the responsibility to feel better rests primarily upon the shoulders of distressed individuals; people that are more often than not experiencing problem-solving impairments. This message contradicts most elements of Tribal identity, which posits that it is the shared responsibility of the entire community to help those that are struggling.

Further, western counseling frameworks tend to pathologize individuals experiencing suicidal distress. Whereas in Indian Country suicidal issues can often be traced back to larger, deeper, problematic social conditions. In Tribal communities, we’ve observed one of the best antidotes to suicidality is social connection. However, in a western counseling context which prioritizes individualism, that particular idea can often seem counterintuitive.

There are other perspectives in Indian Country with spiritual implications that tend to be overlooked in mainstream clinical interventions as well. Much like the complicated presence of alcohol in Indian Country, many families and societies believe there exists a “suicide spirit” that affixes itself in harmful and potentially fatal ways to certain individuals. This malevolent spiritual entity preys on the vulnerable and weak and manipulates desperate situations.

Because of this, many Indigenous families consider suicide to be a taboo topic which should not be discussed openly, so as not to fuel any harmful spirits by inadvertently giving them attention and strength. Whether or not clinicians agree with this perspective is a moot point, the fact remains that empathy and understanding toward this belief system will be paramount to fostering positive outcomes.

Due to these concerns, we advocate for clinical interventions which are strengths-based; i.e. compassionate, relevant, and accessible for Tribal populations. In order to truly be impactful, we believe suicide interventions should contain the following initiatives:

✅ Normalize Suicidality in Indian Country: We acknowledge that suicidal thoughts are a complex and painful experience, not a sign of weakness. By creating an environment where people can speak openly about these struggles, we remove the silence and shame that often surrounds it.

✅ Destigmatize Mental Health in Tribal Communities: Mental health is a shared community responsibility, and by breaking down barriers, we foster the understanding that seeking help is a strength, not a burden.

✅ Promote a Culture of Empathy & Compassion: We stand by the belief that the power of empathy can create healing. Together, we can support those who are struggling with kindness, understanding, and love.

✅ Celebrate Indigenous Reciprocity: The wisdom of Indigenous cultures teaches us that healing is reciprocal. By emphasizing cultural protective factors – like community, traditions, and ancestral knowledge – we strengthen the collective resilience of our people.

Together, we can change the conversation around mental health and suicide in Indian Country and create lasting positive change.

Keep the fire burning.