Maori health research underway
High rates of poor mental health among Maori has prompted a $59,000 study to address the issue.
A 12-month research project supported by Te Whanau o Waipareira began in January aiming to improve Maori mental health in west Auckland.
Wai Research director Tanya Allport said there is a high prevalence of Maori with mental health issues and a feeling that it’s not getting any better. The study ‘‘evolved’’ from Wai Research staff who observed people falling though the gaps, she said.
She said they don’t know enough about what the Maori community needs to create change. Allport said the study will look at how 5-10 mental health services, which claim to have a Maori mental health approach, work.
The study, He Kimihia te Hauora Hinengaro, will further develop kaupapa Maori approaches (created by Maori for Maori) to mental health service.
A kaupapa Maori approach is about honouring who someone is and their cultural background, she said. The study will also explore barriers to accessing mental health services for Maori, Allport said.
Counsellor Mark Strang, who is involved with the research, said there are a large number of Maori throughout the country, including west auckland, that suffer from mental health problems.