title: Suicide: the scourge of Native American people.
abstract: Reportedly, Native Americans have a rate of suicide that is greater than any other ethnic group in the United States, especially in the age range of 15-24. Many who are concerned as to why this is the case offer a variety of theories. Most of the theories have yet to be tested. This particular presentation focuses on the traditional tribal structure of most Native Americans and events of history that have impacted the cultures of Native American Tribes. The particular events covered refer to Western education, various religions, and legislation as playing a most significant role in impacting the cultures of Native Americans. With the hope that we can all work together to diminish the scourge of Native American people, I repeat the words of Chief Seattle, "... be just and deal kindly with my people."
authors.affiliation: Alcoholism and Substance Abuse Program Branch, Indian Health Service, Albuquerque, NM 87110, USA.
authors.forename: M
authors.initials: M
authors.lastname: EchoHawk
mesh_terms: D003469:Culture; D004493:Education; D006801:Humans; D007198:Indians, North American / Q000523:psychology*; D012067:Religion; D012922:Social Change; D013405:Suicide / Q000208:ethnology* / Q000523:psychology; D014481:United States