In Canada's Arctic, Inuit traditions help combat youth depression

Inuit teens learn how to fillet salmon at a summer camp focused on mental health, in Iqaluit, Nunavut, Canada. Photo: AFP

FILLETING a fish, lighting a fire or building an igloo: In Canada's Arctic, Inuit youth are being encouraged to connect with their culture in an attempt to prevent severe depression and save lives.

A dozen teenagers and young adults gather around instructor Alex Flaherty. They don't want to miss any of the traditional hunter's precise gestures as he carves a fish or lights a fire.