January 16, 2018
Maori focus needed for mental health action
The New Zealand Psychological Society says mental health policy needs to include a focus on the historical events that have led to Maori and Pasifika people being disproportionately affected by poor mental health.
The advice comes in what the society is calling its briefing to the incoming Health Minister.
It says mental health and wellbeing is an issue inextricably linked to the sociocultural and economic circumstances of people’s lives.
President elect John Fitzgerald says there are great benefits in seeing mental health and wellbeing as a public health issue.
“Our research indicates that poverty in childhood can negatively influence mental health throughout adulthood.
“Young people and adults who do not have access to resources and opportunities to be part of, and contribute to, society are also more likely to suffer poorer mental health.
“We are also aware Maori and Pasifika people are disproportionately impacted by poor mental health and that there is a need to focus not only on socioeconomic issues but also disadvantage which has its roots in historical events,” he says.
Dr Fitzgerald says the society is concerned about the shortage of psychologists in New Zealand, particularly Maori and Pasifika psychologists, and believes Health Workforce New Zealand has a too narrow focus on the medical and nursing workforces.
Psychologists can assist people to understand what drives behaviours such as problem drinking and gambling, drug abuse, criminal action or parenting issues so that strategies and policies can be developed to manage and improve these issues in the community.
The society supports the new Government’s plan to urgently review mental health and addiction services.
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