Addiction, anxiety, depression, PTSD, and other concurrent disorders affect every community in Canada, but their impact within Indigenous populations is shaped by unique historical, cultural, and developmental experiences. Among these, childhood trauma stands out as one of the most significant contributors to long‑term mental‑health and substance‑use challenges.

As an addiction specialist, I see that healing in Indigenous communities requires more than clinical expertise. It requires cultural humility, trauma‑informed practice, and accessible support systems that honour Indigenous ways of knowing. The Non‑Insured Health Benefits (NIHB) program plays a vital role by offering free counselling services to eligible First Nations and Inuit clients.