Supporting tribal healing efforts for substance use and mental health issues

GATHER: Growing a Tribal Healing Effort through Research

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10975515

This study is working to help American Indian and Alaska Native communities by using their cultural strengths to tackle issues like substance use and mental health, with the goal of improving health and preventing overdoses.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10975515 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to address the high rates of substance use disorders and related mortality among American Indian and Alaska Native (AIAN) populations by leveraging their cultural strengths and community connectedness. The project will involve collaboration between the University of Washington and Johns Hopkins University to develop a comprehensive approach that includes documentation, monitoring of tribal research grants, and building trust with tribal communities. By focusing on culturally grounded methods, the research seeks to enhance health equity and improve outcomes in areas such as overdose prevention, substance use, mental health, and pain management.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation are American Indian and Alaska Native individuals facing substance use or mental health challenges.

Not a fit: Patients who do not identify as American Indian or Alaska Native may not receive benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved health outcomes and reduced substance use disorders in AIAN communities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in culturally tailored interventions for AIAN populations, indicating potential for positive outcomes with this approach.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.