Authors: Andre Pirini, Genevieve Togiaso, Tuifasisina Lupe-Mata-Sila (Tui) Leleisiuao
Year: 2015
Event: 2015 TheMHS Conference
Subject: Culture, Society, Communication
Type of resource: Conference Presentations and Papers
Abstract: Aims: Greater Metro South Brisbane Medicare Local (GMSBML) identified a need to address the mental health needs of the large and growing Pasifika and Maori population in the Logan region. These population groups are underrepresented in national and state statistics due to data collection issues, which impacts on the availability and appropriateness of services. The Pasifika and Maori Mental Health Forum was designed to gain a deeper understanding of the barriers that affect these population groups' capacity to access mental health services and to develop community-led solutions and advocacy tools.
Methods: Ethnic-specific breakout caucus sessions were held and facilitated by community members from Maori, Samoan, Tongan, Fijian, Cook Islands, and youth and health service provider groups. Approximately 250 community members attended the events. A thematic analysis is currently being conducted on the content of the forum.
Findings: Preliminary analysis of the findings have highlighted a number of themes that require an increased focus in the mental health area, including: service integration, Pasifika and Maori workforce development, a holistic perspective and approach to wellbeing, stigma, a family approach to mental health, early intervention, youth, ethnic-specific interventions, and the need to address this "invisible" population which is underrepresented in national and state statistics.
So what: Findings from the forum will provide GMSBML and other relevant health service providers gain a greater understanding of the mental health needs of Pasifika and Maori people in the Logan region and inform appropriate planning for culturally responsive mental health services the future.
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