Designed as a support for Indigenous teens and youth, Mind Medicine is an early intervention program that supports mental wellness through teachings grounded in Acceptance and Commitment Therapy, mindfulness and Indigenous cultural practices. Facilitators integrate cultural knowledge, storytelling and community strengths throughout the sessions to create a space where young people feel seen, respected and supported.
Mind Medicine is a free seven-week group based mental wellness program for Indigenous teens and young adults ages 13 to 30 who are experiencing mild to moderate anxiety or stress and is facilitated by Indigenous-serving organizations.
Based on the YMCA mental wellness program, Y Mind, Mind Medicine was shaped by Indigenous voices and wisdom. Developed in 2019 through collaboration with Indigenous youth, an Indigenous consultant, an Indigenous Advisory, and 13 pilot communities, the program is delivered flexibly so communities can incorporate local culture, medicines and teachings they identify as supportive.
Organizations interested in delivering Mind Medicine can request an exploratory meeting by completing an inquiry form.
Benefits for Indigenous-Serving Organizations Delivering Mind Medicine
Benefits to Participants Attending Mind Medicine
Partnership Interest
Y Mind staff work relationally and collaboratively with interested organizations to confirm that partnering in Mind Medicine is a good fit. To partner with YMCA BC and offer Mind Medicine in your community
Mind Medicine is delivered in Indigenous-serving organizations working in partnership with YMCA BC. Mind Medicine is not delivered at YMCA BC sites. If you are 13-30 and interested in attending a Mind Medicine program please fill out the inquiry form and include your location so we can let you know if there is a Mind Medicine program in your area.
Organizations interested in delivering Mind Medicine can request an exploratory meeting by completing a inquiry form.
Alternatively, email us at mindmedicine@ymcabc.ca.
Our youth support and development programs are offered in the regions listed below. Select a region below to learn more and receive next steps.
Find a program in the Greater Vancouver Region
Find answers to common questions about our program below.
Is ACT and mindfulness appropriate for Indigenous communities?
Feedback from pilot communities found ACT and mindfulness complementary to Indigenous values and traditional teachings. YMCA BC continues to listen and adapt with each community.
Was Mind Medicine created by Indigenous peoples?
The curriculum is based on Y Mind, but the development of Mind Medicine was shaped through extensive collaboration with Indigenous consultants, Indigenous youth focus groups, an Indigenous Advisory, and 13 Indigenous communities who piloted the program. Communities continue to shape the program through cultural teachings and local knowledge.
Who delivers Mind Medicine?
Programs are delivered by Indigenous serving organizations with trained facilitators who have experience in mental health and group facilitation.
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