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First Nations Regional Health Survey (RHS) 2008/10

National Report on Adults, Youth and Children Living in First Nations Communities

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Statistical Highlights

  • 5.3% of the total on-reserve and northern First Nations population surveyed.

  • Surveys took on average 46 minutes for adults, 30 minutes for youth, and 22 minutes for children.

  • Major themes included mental health, substance use, food security, housing conditions, and cultural wellness.

Notable Findings

  • Noted disparities in education, employment, and income compared to non-First Nations Canadians.

  • Confirmed strong links between cultural participation and improved mental health outcomes.

  • Highlighted significant issues with food security and housing in many communities.

Abstract

This national report presented findings from the second phase of the First Nations Regional Health Survey (RHS), which aimed to provide a comprehensive, culturally grounded understanding of health and well-being among First Nations adults, youth, and children living on reserve and in northern communities. Conducted under First Nations governance, the survey explored a wide range of topics, from demographics and income to traditional medicine and residential school impacts. By gathering data directly from communities across Canada, the study strengthened the evidence base for health policies and programs that respect First Nations priorities.

The insights offered by this report underscored the urgency of addressing long-standing disparities while validating the protective role of cultural identity and community wellness initiatives in improving health outcomes.

RELEASE DATE:

September 2012 (reflecting minor analytical updates)

CONDUCTED BY:

First Nations Information Governance Centre (FNIGC), in partnership with 10 regional First Nations organizations across Canada

DATA COLLECTION PERIOD:

June 2008 – November 2010

PARTICIPATING COMMUNITIES:

216 First Nations communities across all provinces and territories except Nunavut; 21,757 surveys administered (11,043 adults, 4,837 youth, 5,877 children)

LENGTH & STRUCTURE:

Approximately 37 chapters plus appendices, covering 216 pages; structured around holistic health themes for adults, youth, and children.

Why It Matters

This report matters because it provided an unprecedented, community-driven lens on the health and living conditions of First Nations people. By centering First Nations principles of Ownership, Control, Access, and Possession (OCAP®), the survey allowed communities to tell their own stories through their data. The findings highlighted systemic gaps in areas like education, employment, food security, and mental health, but also illustrated the resilience nurtured by cultural practices and strong community ties. It laid a vital foundation for First Nations-led advocacy, program development, and policy change aimed at closing health inequities.

Key Topics

  • Social determinants of health: education, employment, income

  • Cultural participation, traditional practices, and wellness

  • Physical and mental health indicators, including substance use and food security