OCHN recognizes Native American Heritage Month

OCHN recognizes Native American Heritage Month: shares 30+ Ways Calendar to celebrate

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI (November 14, 2022) – November is recognized as Native American Heritage Month to honor those facing mental health challenges in the Native American communities. Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) is joining efforts in raising awareness of the intergenerational trauma faced by these communities.

Intergenerational trauma is defined as trauma passed down through previous generations. Factors that contribute to this can include stress and loss of culture and traditions throughout the years.

It is important to bring awareness to this issue, as it contributes to the rates of mental illness in Native American communities. According to the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), nearly one-fifth of Native American adults experienced mental illness in the year 2019.

“OCHN recognizes the hardships that the Native American communities have and continue to face in the United States and commits to standing together to enhance the quality of mental health services through our agency and network,” states OCHN’s Chief Corporate Compliance and DEI Officer, Bernard Hooper.

The OCHN Inclusion, Diversity, Equity, and Accessibility (IDEA) workgroup also partners with local organizations to bring trainings and awareness to staff and the organization’s service provider network. Recorded trainings are available at oaklandchn.org.

Additionally, the IDEA committee has composed a 30+ Ways to Celebrate Native American Heritage Month calendar.

About OCHN

OCHN is contracted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to lead a provider service network that assists approximately 23,000 Oakland County citizens at more than 300 service sites across the county. People who receive public behavioral health services through OCHN's provider network include those who have an intellectual or developmental disability, mental health challenge, or substance use disorder. Most of these individuals have Medicaid insurance coverage.

OCHN's goal is to ensure these individuals are aware of and have access to services and supports that will improve their health and quality of life, as well as ensure their engagement in full community participation. Its mission to “inspire hope, empower people, and strengthen communities” reflects an unyielding belief in a "Valuable System for Valued People." Programs and supports provided by

OCHN's service network are available at www.oaklandchn.org.

-END-