July 20, 2023
Researchers say mercury exposure in Grassy Narrows First Nation, located in Western Ont., is linked to the community’s high youth suicide attempt rate, which is three times greater than that of other First Nations in Canada. The study found the consumption of fish from mercury-contaminated waters led to nervous system disorders and psychological distress in community members over generations. Mothers from Grassy Narrows indicated that 41% of young adolescents from the community attempted suicide. The community’s waters were contaminated in 1970 when a paper mill dumped mercury upstream of Grassy Narrows. Prior to the dump, the community hadn’t reported any suicide attempts.