Suicide rates among Native Americans range from 3 1/2 to 10 times greater (depending on the state) than for other youth in America, said Sen. Byron Dorgan (D-ND). The Indian Affairs Committee heard testimony on behalf of the "7th Generation Promise: Indian Youth Suicide Prevention Act of 2009 (S 1635)" discussing the epidemic of suicide pointing to the mental health needs of the Indian Health Service. Dr. Yvette Roubideaux explained services are inadequate and fragmented, stitching together a combination of tribal, state, local and community-based entities that have contracted out as well as providing their own services.
This bill (S 1635) calls for the implementation of tele-behavioral mental health services in addition to predoctoral psychology and psychiatry interns.
Track S 1635 at Open Congress:
A Webcast of the hearings is available.
