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Integrating Inuit Knowledge Principles in Multi-Level Mental Health Clinical Trials

This study is looking at how eating more country foods affects mental health among Inuit men and women in Arviat, NU. The goal is to evaluate if eating more of these foods helps people feel less depressed or anxious, and whether being part of food-gathering and cultural activities also makes a difference. Whether the positive effects last over time, and if getting access to these foods later (instead of right away) still helps people feel better, will also be assessed.

ClinicalTrials.gov IDNCT07014852

PhaseEARLY_PHASE1

Enrollment40

SponsorUniversity of Alberta

Age18 Years

SexALL

I'm interested View official listing

Conditions studied

Depression, Anxiety

About this study

Interventions

Other: Traditional Country Foods — Participants will receive weekly distributions of traditional foods, including caribou and fish. Guided conversations will explore changes in dietary habits, emotional well-being, and cultural connections
Behavioral: Cultural Workshops — Weekly workshops led by Elders will focus on traditional country food, food preparation, and sharing practices, enhancing cultural identity and community bonds. Participants will also engage in cultural camps where they will be led by Elders in land based teachings on country food.

Primary outcomes

Cultural Acceptability of the Intervention- Qualitative Interviews (From enrolment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks)
Cultural Acceptability of the Intervention- Participant Diaries (From enrolment to the end of treatment at 12 weeks)
Participant satisfaction and perceived impact on mental health (From enrolment to the end of treatment at weeks 4, 8, and 12.)
Mental Health Impacts (Baseline (enrolment))
Mental Health Impacts - 4 weeks (4 weeks after enrolment)
Mental Health Impacts (8 weeks after enrolment)
Mental Health Impacts (12 weeks after enrolment)
Participant Satisfaction- Participant Diaries (Baseline (at enrolment))

Eligibility information

Inclusion Criteria: * Inuit * Able to consent to study participation * Participating in community wellness programs facilitated by the Aqqiumavvik Wellness Centre within 6 months prior to screening * Willing to consume country foods provided as part of the intervention * Willing to engage in individual and group activities, including guided conversations and cultural workshops * 18-65 years of age Exclusion Criteria: * Less than 18 years of age * Greater than 65 years of age * Unable to consent to study participation * Mental health conditions requiring immediate clinical intervention * Known allergies or medical conditions that prevent the consumption of traditional country foods * Physical or logistical barriers that prevent participation in weekly activities

Study locations

Aqqiumavvik Society, Arviat, Nunavut X0C 0E0 Canada
Aqqiumavvik - Arviat Wellness Society, Arviat, Nunavut X0C0E0 Canada

Before you participate: Varda Clinical is an independent discovery tool, not the study sponsor or a medical provider. Eligibility can only be determined by the official study team. Discuss potential risks and benefits with a qualified healthcare professional.

Source: ClinicalTrials.gov. Record last refreshed by Varda Clinical: 2026-09-27.