Traditional Foods + Cultural Activities for Mental Health

This trial explores whether eating traditional country foods and participating in cultural activities can improve mental health for Inuit men and women in Arviat, NU. Researchers aim to determine if these foods and activities help reduce feelings of depression and anxiety. Participants will either begin these activities immediately or after a delay to assess if the timing affects outcomes. The trial seeks Inuit individuals who have participated in community wellness programs and are willing to engage in cultural workshops and consume traditional foods like caribou and Arctic char. As an Early Phase 1 trial, this research seeks to understand how these cultural interventions affect people, offering participants a chance to be among the first to explore these potential mental health benefits.

The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It focuses on diet and cultural activities, so it's best to ask the study team for guidance.

Research has shown that cultural workshops are generally well-liked and provide psychological benefits. Studies indicate that environments based on trust and support enhance feelings of safety and belonging, which are important for mental health.

Regarding traditional country foods, research has found that these nutrient-rich foods link to better mental health. Foods like caribou, seal, and Arctic char can improve mood and mental well-being by supporting emotional stability and brain function.

Researchers are excited about these treatments because they integrate cultural workshops and traditional country foods like caribou, seal, and Arctic char, offering a holistic approach to mental health. Unlike standard treatments that often rely on medication or therapy alone, this approach incorporates Elder-led workshops on food preparation and cultural practices, which can help strengthen community ties and cultural identity. This method also emphasizes mental health support through unnikkaaratiginniq and sharing circles, providing a culturally enriched, communal healing environment that is distinct from conventional methods.

This trial will compare the effects of cultural workshops and traditional country foods on mental health. Research has shown that participating in cultural activities can boost mental health, with studies finding improvements in mood and reductions in depression and anxiety. Similarly, access to traditional country foods links to better mental health, as increased availability of these foods tends to correlate with reduced depression and anxiety. In this trial, the immediate intervention group will receive weekly distributions of traditional country foods and participate in Elder-led workshops, while the delayed intervention group will begin these activities after 30 days. Both cultural workshops and traditional foods aim to support mental health by fostering community and enhancing emotional stability.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰