Addressing the Silent Crisis: Suicide Prevention Among Native American Youth
As an elder, you know what I mean and sure you can approach that little child. I'm going to touch on sex trafficking because that relates to us as Native Americans, that we have been dealing with that for quite a long time, and you know what it's fucked up, and I hate to say this, but the situation that is going on on the reservations makes sex trafficking look like a fucking walk in the park, doesn't it?
How do we confront the silent crisis of suicide among Native American youth? In this episode of 'T.M.I with Iggy', host Inacia Martin, affectionately known as Iggy, takes on this challenging topic with empathy and insight. Iggy begins with a moment of silence to honor those who suffer in isolation, setting a tone of respect and solemnity.
She dives into the risk factors contributing to these alarming statistics, such as mental illness, social isolation, and the historical trauma inflicted by the boarding school system. Iggy doesn't shy away from discussing the harrowing impact of sex trafficking on Native American youth, highlighting the urgent need for resources and accountability, especially for religious leaders who have committed abuses.
One of the most poignant parts of the episode is when Iggy shares her own struggles with suicidal thoughts during her youth. Her personal story underscores the scarcity of support and resources available at that time, emphasizing the critical need to reach out to children before they endure trauma. “The tiny tots are the ones that matter”, she says, advocating for early intervention. Despite the heavy subject matter, Iggy's message is ultimately one of hope and community solidarity.
She urges listeners to seek help and support if they or someone they know is struggling, reinforcing the importance of standing together to combat this issue. “We have to be there for each other”, she insists, making a compelling call to action. This episode is a must-listen for anyone concerned with mental health, suicide prevention, and supporting Native American communities. Iggy's heartfelt reflections and practical insights provide a sobering yet hopeful perspective on a critical issue.