Native Hearts

This film ambitiously sets out to expose the human psyche through the lens of mental illness. It accomplishes this through a telling of three stories running simultaneously. It fascinates by looking directly at those afflicted with the illness , as well as those who are close to the afflicted. All involved are subject to frustration, misunderstanding and a struggle to find some level of acceptance of their situations, themselves and of life in general. The realm of spirit is nicely woven into this story and gives some level of comfort toward misunderstanding, but the film keeps coming at you. Check it out!

Lord Finn takes you on a fun, surprising, and emotional journey into the mind of the main character, Daniel, as he crosses paths with people with similar issues to himself. Will they figure out how to move forward in life? You'll have to watch to find out!

I was attracted to Al Mertens' exploration of mental health issues in Native Hearts that manifest from trauma, particularly in the form of dissociation. Dissociation can help people that have experienced trauma protect themselves from the memories and the devastating psychological impact of trauma. In Daniel's case in the film, his dissociation becomes his identity or identities.

Although Daniel's story is an extreme example of dissociation, the condition is common among people to varying degrees. I dissociated regularly as a child to detach from trauma. As a result, I developed a vivid imagination, which I tap into when I'm writing a play or prose. Becoming aware that I was dissociating was a major breakthrough for me in healing from my own trauma.

We see the effects of trauma manifest differently in the other characters in the film. Some cope in healthy ways while some need professional support to live with their trauma. In the film, we see how the effects of trauma can land a person in jail, the hospital, or living on the streets. If you are someone you know may be experiencing mental health issues, please reach out to someone you trust for help. Please don't fight mental illness alone. Call the Mental Health Crisis Line at 988.

This film is a must watch for anyone with Native American heritage. If you or anyone you are close to, struggles with mental illness, you will find yourself able to relate to the character of this film.

The cast is wonderful and you will find yourself rooting for these characters.

Interesting story that weaves mental health issues and native culture together. Provided a look into the mind of an individual struggling with mental health issues.