Indigenous children and young people in Chenalho, San Juan Cancuc, and Las Margaritas face escalating violence, forced displacement, organized crime, early substance use, child and early unions, and scarce culturally relevant mental health services. Ch'ieltik responds through an innovative intercultural approach that integrates Maya well-being principles-Lekil Kuxlejal and Lekilaltik-with mindfulness and social-emotional learning to foster resilience, emotional well-being, and collective well-be
Indigenous adolescents and young people in Chenalho, San Juan Cancuc, and Las Margaritas face growing mental health challenges due to violence, forced displacement, early alcohol and substance use, child and early unions, and the lack of culturally relevant emotional support services. These conditions increase stress, anxiety, and hopelessness, limiting their opportunities for development and their ability to build meaningful futures.
The project will strengthen protective factors for the mental health of Indigenous children and young people through safe spaces for learning and well-being grounded in Lekil Kuxlejal and mindfulness. Through guided meditation, mindful movement, dialogue circles, youth gatherings, and social-emotional learning, participants will develop skills in self-care, emotional regulation, resilience, and the creation of meaningful life plans.
The project will contribute to improved mental health and well-being among Indigenous children and young people by strengthening protective factors, resilience, and social-emotional skills. Over time, participants will be better equipped to make healthy life choices, prevent violence and substance use, and build meaningful futures. The initiative will also strengthen community support networks, fostering more resilient, peaceful, and inclusive Indigenous communities.
This project has provided additional documentation in a PDF file (projdoc.pdf).
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