Alashua Crowley
Inuit Mental Health Workers: Strength, Challenges, and Retention
Nunavut faces a persistent shortage of local frontline mental health workers despite investment in Indigenous-led and trauma-informed services. Recruitment and retention challenges can affect continuity of care and the ability to deliver services grounded in Inuit experiences and priorities.
This study focuses on the conditions that influence Inuit workers’ decisions to enter and remain in mental health roles, alongside the strengths they bring to their work. It is being developed in collaboration with Paqqijamik Naalangniq – Nunavut SPOR SUPPORT Unit and Amautiit Nunavut Inuit Women’s Association.
Approach and methodology
The research will use interviews with Inuit frontline mental health workers to document their experiences in the workplace. Discussions will explore challenges, including racism and inadequate support, while also identifying the workers’ perspectives, capabilities and sources of strength.
The collaboration with Nunavut-based organizations is intended to ensure that the research reflects Inuit workers’ experiences and the priorities of the communities they serve.
Expected contribution
The project aims to produce practical recommendations for recruitment, retention and more supportive workplace practices. It seeks to strengthen continuity and cultural responsiveness in mental health services by centring Inuit workers’ voices and experience.
About the researcher
Alashua Crowley grew up in Iqaluit, Nunavut, and describes herself as a settler. At the time of the published project biography, she was completing a master’s degree in Counselling at the University of Victoria, on the traditional territories of the Lekwungen (Songhees and Xʷsepsəm/Esquimalt) peoples.
Her background includes community organizing, community-based research and frontline mental health work. She is interested in strengthening the systems that support both mental health workers and the communities they serve.
