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Hi Auntie Amanda, I was reading about suicide rates in the United States and American Indians were the highest in rates. As a non-Tribal person, would it be acceptable for me to pursue a degree in psychology to help tribes?

Hi there, Thanks for reaching out. It’s important to know about these topics, and to approach them in a respectful way. It is true that American Indian communities have high rates of suicide. The Center for Disease Control found that from 1999 to 2017 the suicide rate for American Indian…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Mental Health, Non-Native Allies

Hi Auntie, I’ve been getting a lot of messages from a man who is catfishing me and pretending to be a boy. On a daily he asks me for nudes! What should I do?

Ah, I’m so sorry this is happening to you! You can immediately block this person on all your social media channels. Just go to their profile and tap “Block” or block their cell phone # by going clicking on the info button and selecting “Block.” If it’s an adult asking…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Identity, Intolerance, Mental Health

How to begin to trace what tribe(s) I belong to??? Recently did a genetic test I’m 44% native American I want to know where I belong.

Hey there, Thank you for your question. I am always glad to hear when someone wants to connect to their culture. The issues around DNA testing are complicated and controversial. The short answer is that there is no DNA test to prove ties to a specific tribe. First off what…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Intolerance, Mental Health, Non-Native Allies, Spirituality

I grew up in a white household because my parents are divorced. I feel disconnected from my culture, i used to jingle dance when i was younger but i wanted to know how to get involved in the community as a teenager who doesn’t have much native family.

Dear Penelope, Identity and knowing who we are is one of the most important journeys we can walk. I encourage you to explore your identity. This is a great start. There are many ways you can do this, yet there is no right or wrong way for doing this. If…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Mental Health, Non-Native Allies, Spirituality

I am believed to be a mix of Onondaga and Seneca but I can not prove my heritage because of documentation loss and dodging.My grandfather and parents have cut all ties with the Rez.I live all the way across country. How can I connect with my people?

Dear Relative, Identity and knowing who we are is one of the most important journeys we can walk. I encourage you to explore your identity. This is a great start. There are many ways you can do this, yet there is no right or wrong way for doing this. I…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Mental Health, Non-Native Allies, Spirituality

I had a vivid dream where I was told my native name. This young woman I’ve seen more than once, unsure if she is my ancestor or my spirit guide, announced or gave it to me. I’m proud of my name but am curious if it’s okay to use my native name publicly?

Hi Merrick! Dreams are such a fascinating story to tap into. I too have incredibly vivid and detailed dreams. Often, I can feel, smell, and make decisions within them. They used to scare me because some of them were pretty intense. If you have an elder to talk to, start…
Answered by Auntie Manda
Topics: Culture and Language, Identity, Mental Health, Spirituality
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