Babaamaajimowinan (Telling of news in different places)

Paths to better mental health available with Chickasaw Nation's Chikasha Anokfilli program

Chikasha Anokfilli, which translates to “thinking Chickasaw,” is a publicly available mental health initiative exploring what it means to think Chickasaw while providing resources to support and promote mental health and wellness.

May is National Mental Health Awareness month, a time designated to raise awareness about mental health, provide support, educate the public and advocate for policies that benefit people with mental illness and their families.

With Chikasha Anokfilli, the Chickasaw Nation offers a practical and educational way to join in on the mental health movement.

“Mental wellness is an essential priority to the Chickasaw Nation,” Chickasaw Nation Governor Bill Anoatubby said. “To be mentally strong and healthy allows us to function at our best. It allows us to be ‘thinking Chickasaw.’”

As part of the initiative – through a series of panel discussions, presentations and activities – industry professionals demonstrate how to live healthier lives while focusing on balance and strength.

Panel discussions, presentations and activities address a wide range of topics, such as trauma and grief, suicide awareness and prevention, and financial and cultural wellness, among others.

“Mental health affects our personal and professional lives, our relationships and our ability to function as individuals and community members,” Governor Anoatubby said. “We encourage everyone to prioritize mental wellness and take advantage of the many opportunities and resources offered through ‘Chikasha Anokfilli.’”

The material is available at no cost on the “Connecting our Community” webpage at Chickasaw.net/COC. This site serves as a portal for the Chickasaw Nation to offer new ways to connect and stay informed.

A number of Chikasha Anokfilli lessons are offered under the “Fitness & Wellness'' tab of “Connecting our Community'' at Chickasaw.net/CoC. Videos are also available at Facebook.com/TheChickasawNation.

It is an ongoing initiative, with the Chickasaw Nation planning and producing additional material going forward.

 

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