Harnessing the healing power of the land: culturally appropriate treatments for Indigenous persons with a substance use disorder - Summary - MDSpire

Harnessing the healing power of the land: culturally appropriate treatments for Indigenous persons with a substance use disorder

  • By

  • Julie Wallace

  • Maryana Kravtsenyuk

  • Randal Bell

  • March 23, 2026

  • 0 min

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Objective:

To explore the effectiveness of land-based healing approaches for Indigenous individuals with Substance Use Disorders (SUD) and to recommend specific culturally relevant interventions such as traditional practices and community-based programs.

Key Findings:
  • Land-based healing strengthens connections to land and culture, improving mental health and self-esteem.
  • Successful programs involve community governance, holistic health approaches, and continuity of care.
  • Nature immersion has therapeutic benefits that support recovery from SUD.
  • Challenges in program implementation include funding and cultural safety training.
Interpretation:

Land-based healing programs are effective in addressing SUD among Indigenous populations by fostering cultural connections and utilizing traditional practices.

Limitations:
  • Limited research on the long-term effectiveness of land-based healing programs.
  • Challenges in program evaluation and data-sharing methods that respect Indigenous knowledge.
  • Potential biases in the literature reviewed may affect the findings.
Conclusion:

Increasing awareness and implementation of land-based SUD treatments, with a focus on community involvement, can provide culturally sensitive and effective healing options for Indigenous individuals.

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