pandemic and its effects on those with mental illness and addictions.That’s according to a new report from a committee of MPs who spent the last year studying the effects of COVID-19 on Indigenous populations in Canada.Representatives from dozens of First Nations, Inuit and Metis communities and organizations painted a grim picture of the state of health and social infrastructure in their jurisdictions.They noted many Indigenous communities were already dealing with mental health, addictions and suicide crises before the pandemic.Now, people are more isolated than ever and access to mental health services has been hindered due to lockdowns, cancelled programming, closed public buildings and staff burnout.Limited access to therapy and.