Jessica Hulsey reflects on the contributions to recovery from indigenous communities
"During Native Heritage Month, I like to reflect on the contributions to recovery from our indigenous communities. As a member of the Sault Ste Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians, I've seen members of my own family find recovery through indigenous teachings and culture, through reconnection. Our approaches to addiction and our view of wellness is not just the absence of disease but a harmony of the whole person – mind, body, emotion, and spirit. Even the Ojibwe word for wellness is the 'good life', or mino-bimaadiziwin, which means a life of peace, balance, good health, and harmony with your relatives and your environment. A life without contradictions. The Seven Grandfather Teachings in our culture show us how to live that good life with love, truth, honesty, humility, respect, courage and wisdom. Teaching that line up well with the biopsychosocial approach to health and wellness and the 12-step traditions in recovery; teaching that provides guideposts to recovery and better health for all of us."
Jessica Hulsey, member of the Sault Ste Marie Tribe of Chippewa Indians