An Indigenous lens on co-occurring disorders: Mental health & addictions with Ernie Cardinal

Photograph courtesy of Darlene Cardinal

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Session Date: Tuesday, February 23, 2016

Join the conversation with Ernie Cardinal as he shares the Indigenous framework he uses to support those struggling with co-occurring disorders.

Front line worker Ernie Cardinal, will be sharing an Indigenized approach to supporting those with co-occurring disorders – mental health and addictions.

The Cree presenter is a member of the Sucker Creek First Nation. While taking the Child and Youth Care program at Douglas College Cardinal first came across the specialized co-occurring disorders program for professionals. From that point Cardinal looked for ways to weave Indigenous frameworks throughout the concepts.

Cardinal’s focus is on supporting vulnerable Indigenous people in their the healing journey. The Circle of Courage and our medicine wheels teachings principals support balance, healing and resilience. Join the conversation February 23, 2016 at 10am to 11:30am!

Session Video:

TALKING POINTS:

1. What is co-occurring disorders?
2. What does an Indigenous perspective on co-occurring disorders look like?
3.  How do Indigenous ways differ than a non-Indigenous ways when it comes to supporting those with co-occurring disorders?

About the Presenter:

Ernie Cardinal

As a youth Cardinal’s life was entrenched with drinking, drugs, bouts of homelessness, jail and living in a dangerous way.  At 17 years old, an Alberta ranch for boys helped Ernie in his healing journey. When a fire in the barn killed most of the animals; 12 newborn goats were left requiring care from the youth. Cardinal was placed in charge of two of these newly born goats. The feedings every two hours taught Ernie how to care, while he watched them grow up. This experience tied in with his Mom’s love, and volunteering at the Friendship Center helped him transform his life. His employment history and academics focus on supporting those who are most vulnerable.