Mental Health of Indigenous Youth - Annotated Bibliography Example

Cultural Competency Name: Adesuwa Sandra Idahosa Course: HEA230 Lecturer: Maria Miller 1st of June Cultural Competency Even though globalization and technology has opened an opportunity for people from different backgrounds to work and live together, the level of ethnicity and marginalization is still prominent. Ethnic, racial and cultural disparities exist in health care across many communities (Smye & Browne, 2002). Indigenous people consisting of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander in Australia have experienced disparities in many aspects affecting their well-being (Smye & Browne, 2002). Numerous factors have contributed to increased prevalence of mental health related problems among these communities such as exclusion by the government, socio-economic disadvantages, racism, and poor access to services, lack of employment, lack of accessibility to social services such as education among many others (Chino & DeBruyn, 2006). Cases of suicide and incarceration have therefore increased because of feeling of hopelessness. According to Smye & Browne (2002), loss of life through suicide and lifestyles pose threat to the cultural practices and norms of the communities. Negative portray of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people by media outlets work to damage their reputation. The paper therefore provides and analysis and a critique of various media articles related to mental problems experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people that form the Indigenous society. Media Article one Creative Spirits. (2015). Aboriginal culture - Mental health and Aboriginal people, Retrieved 25 May 2015 http://www.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture/health/mental-health-and-aboriginal-people#ixzz3bBll1gu1 Key issues The article discusses the mental health of the Aboriginal people in Australia. Statistics indicate that many people of Aboriginal origin have a higher chance of suffering from various mental diseases more so dementia compared to people living in other countries. Statistics indicate that 12.4 percent of Aboriginal people over the age of 45 years suffer from dementia compared to non-Aboriginal at the rate of 2.6 percent (Creative Spirits, 2015). Statistics further indicates that Aboriginal people that live in remote communities are 10 times more likely to develop dementia as opposed to those that live in India and Indonesia. The mental health is worsening among this group of people as exhibited through the number of young people committing suicide, suffering from depression and anxiety as well as other cognitive disabilities. Therefore, this situation requires long-term intervention by the government to help provide tangible solution to the problem by providing additional mental health services. It is also important to conduct further research on the prevalence of suicide rates that connects with the mental health to find appropriate interventions. Links to the models and approaches It is unfortunate that such disparities exist in this age and time. The government seems to have relinquished its responsibilities to serve Indigenous people, as its approach to health is something discouraging. The government has the obligation to partner with stakeholders to promote diversity and equity in accessibility of various health services. Taking this step will help to promote quality healthcare among Indigenous people suffering from different mental disabilities (Smye & Browne, 2002). How this material affects current debate It is astonishing twist when the Federal Government fails to perform its services diligently. Reducing funding and showing lack of commitment to Indigenous people will see the country experience increased cases of mental problems (Chino & DeBruyn, 2006). Personal reflection The article is disturbing especially the statistics on the prevalence of mental problems among Indigenous people. This illustrates that something is a mess and requires immediate actions. Deployment of mental health services across locations of these communities will go miles in promoting the wellbeing and good health among the Indigenous populations. Media article two Pro Bono. (2014). Mental Health Campaign for Indigenous Youth. September 30 2015. http://www.probonoaustralia.com.au/news/2014/09/mental-health-campaign-indigenous-youth# Key issues The article focuses on the recently launched campaign aimed at getting Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal young people to talk about their well being and problems that affect their mental health. The campaign initiators understand the challenges that these indigenous young people are facing and therefore, they want to get a platform to provide tangible solutions (Pro Bono, 2014). The pioneers of the campaign are 12 Torres Strait Islander and Aboriginal youths that come from Darwin Brisbane, Elcho Island, Perth, Broome and Melbourne (Pro Bono, 2014). The campaign is led by Headspace a not for profit organization (Pro Bono, 2014) and campaign aims to improve mental health literacy among the group as well encourage these youths to seek for help through eheadspace online, headspace centres or through telephone counseling service. According to the Chief executive officer of the Headspace, Mr. Chris Tanti, anxiety, depression and suicide highly affects youths compared to non-Indigenous young people hence the relevance of the campaign (Pro Bono, 2014). The portrayal of Indigenous communities causes feelings of isolation, judgment and shame and this deters these youths to seek for mental health services. The trust of people in the existing services is also low because of issues such as confidentiality. Therefore, this campaign is hopefully going to help many youths that suffer from different mental challenges such as stress, depression, anxiety hence promote positive living. Links to the models and approaches Campaigns serve as an alternate way to reach people and to create awareness on pertinent issues such as inequality and social injustices. The Government seems unconcerned about the welfare of its Indigenous people, as they have not shown support (Congress 2014 Budget Response, 2014). Creating awareness on issues to do with mental health is one way of transforming the society (Liebenberg & Ungar, 2008). Empowering these youths makes them to have higher self-esteem, take their rightful position in society and lead better lives. Mental illness hamper realization of youth’s dreams something that should not manifest in this age and time. How this material affects current debate Marginalization of youths from Indigenous communities is what has contributed to their low self-esteem and increased mental health risks. Not for profit, entities and youths are not just waiting on government that seems not to mind about their issues. They have recognized that they need to do something to rescue the situation, which is an awesome step to elevating the living standards of the young people (Liebenberg & Ungar, 2008). Personal reflection Giving young people a platform to express themselves is a welcome idea that needs support from all likeminded people. Many youths experience difficult situations but lack appropriate platforms to share their experiences to get constructive advice. Confidentiality is something that has scared many of these youths from expressing their feelings. Providing platforms that embrace and appreciate youths as well guarantee confidentiality such as online platforms and telephone interviews will help reduce negative behaviors and mental health challenges. Media article three Anderson, S. (2015). Government will not redirect funds in ‘poorly planned’ mental health system. Retrieved from: http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2015/04/16/government-wont-redirect-funds-poorly-planned-mental-health-system Key issues The article is about the Government change of decision in funding of mental health services. The minister of Health Sussan Ley made announcement that money meant for community based health services was to be redirected, as a review in the country mental health programs and services is underway (Anderson, 2015). The government will direct $ 1 billion (Anderson, 2015). This directive was arrived at to ensure effective utilization of funds. The fact that government has committed its resources to ensure proper service delivery in mental health programs; this has not contributed to tangible results. The report the government released as well recommends a national plan to help prevent suicide among Indigenous people. The government spends $1 billion every year on mental services but the money is not put into correct use. On the other hand, shadow minister McLucas Jan stated that the report clearly indicates how Indigenous people experience many challenges. The level of incarceration, self-harming and suicide is higher compared to non-Indigenous. The level of Indigenous people is around 2.7 times more than that of non-Indigenous people. Furthermore, the suicide rate of Indigenous people is twice that on non-Indigenous people. This therefore indicates that the mental health system is a broken and crisis driven system that needs correction. Links to the models and approaches The Government has to greater extent failed to provide quality health care to Indigenous people suffering from mental health related problems. Withholding the money is a decision that will affect many people and it would be important that the Government puts in place systems that will ensure efficiency in utilization of resources. The cases of suicide and mental problems as per the report are higher among indigenous people a clear indication of discrimination and unfairness. It is important for the government to partner with others entities with goodwill. Despite this, the government efforts to help rural Indigenous people as well put into consideration the holistic and emotional well-being views of the stakeholders (Taylor & Guerin, 2010). How this material affects current debate Despite the increased level of mental health related challenges, the Government is still reluctant to take part in the same through financing and educating members on suicide prevention measures. Withholding funds will deter service delivery to those vulnerable people hence will lead to more severe consequences. The Government should put in place appropriate mechanisms to ensure that Indigenous people get quality services to lead healthy and quality lives. Personal reflection Even though the decision of the Government to redirect money may appear noble, it will have negative impacts on many indigenous people. The Government should take the blame for its poor management of resources and should put in place stringent measures to avoid such incidences again. The government should as well live up to the spirit of the Constitution to ensure equality and justice in delivery of services to its citizens. The stakeholders should also come together and forge appropriate way out to solve the problem that faces Indigenous people. Media article four Chingaipe, S. (2014). Is racism affecting health outcomes for some Australians? Retrieved from: http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2014/02/21/racism-affecting-australians-health Key issues The article alludes that the negative stereotyping and racism has contributed to increased cases psychological illness among the non-Indigenous people (Chingaipe, 2014). Racism is one of the social determinants of health that has impacted negatively on the health of Indigenous people. According to Chingaipe (2014), the life of expectancy of Indigenous people is lower than other Australians. They furthermore experience higher health problems and diseases than other Australians. Most of the Indigenous people face prejudice when they seek medical services. To counter the stereotypes and racism, it requires government intervention as well as training staffs on cultural awareness. Staffs that deeply understand culture, experiences and history of Aboriginal people stand a better chance to address the health related issues that face Aboriginal people. Enough evidence indicates that increased racism and discrimination has contributed to increased psychological illnesses (Chingaipe, 2014). The Government of Australia needs to implement the Senate inquiry of March 2013 that provides steps to take to overcome the negative effects of poor social determinants of health (Chingaipe, 2014). Links to the models and approaches The state in Australia requires immediate course of action to promote cohesion and unity as well as equity in provision of health services. It is the responsibility of the government to promote cohesion and quality in accessibility to health care. Promoting cultural diversity through implementation of various legislations such as Senate inquiry of March 2013 will go extra miles to reducing social discrimination. People themselves must as well take the initiative to embrace diversity (Stoneham, Goodman, Daube, 2014). Involving Indigenous people in media will help reduce negative mindset and hence help promote and maintain health and well-being of Indigenous people. How this material affects current debate Government enactment of laws and training of staffs on cultural awareness will improve the relationships between different communities. This will also help to reduce prevalence of psychological illness among Indigenous people in Australia. Media should as well portray Indigenous people in lightfaces and this will allow the world to view them positively hence, support them. The Indigenous people will also improve in their self-esteem making them value themselves hence, reduce cases of suicide and mental challenges such as stress and anxiety. Personal reflection Racism is a problem usually experienced in many communities across the world. In Australia, racism affects the psychology of the people and impacts on their health. People should embrace one another and appreciate their diversity. It is also important for the media to help change the perception of people in reference to racism. I believe that media sets agenda and it can be an appropriate tool to champion transformation and change to reduce prevalence of mental problems among the Aboriginal. Media article five Scott, S. (2015). Mental health patients facing cuts to crucial services amid funding uncertainty: experts. March 24 2015. Retrieved from: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03-24/mental-health-patients-facing-cuts-to-crucial-services/6342530 Key issues The article focuses on the risks of lack of accessibility to mental services because of lack of funding. The government has not yet released funds to mental health groups and this is raising anxiety. The Federal Government has not yet released funding for hundred of contracts not yet guaranteed after June 30. Close to seventy mental health groups are still in darkness of whether they will receive funding or not. This has prompted the groups to write an open letter for the Prime Minister and the health Minister for immediate actions. The letter requires advice on the future of programs. Many agencies that benefit from the fund have indicated that failure to provide funds; they will terminate employment of their staffs in few days. Most of the people especially Indigenous are the majority that benefits from this funding. Organizations such as Headspace, Mental Health Australia and the Black Dog Institute play a critical role in providing tangible services to people that suffer from mental related problems. Therefore, it is the obligation of the government to play its role in ensuring that funds reach the groups in time to reduce anxiety among the people and the agencies. Links to the models and approaches Mental health groups contribute greatly in the provision of services to the people with mental challenges. The government therefore has to partner with them and support them so that all the people can access to such critical functions. It is imperative to plan and to safeguard enough finances to support such programs. The most important thing the government can do is to facilitate service provision by working closely with these agencies. All people regardless of their culture or medical status have the right to access to quality healthcare (Smye & Browne, 2002). How this material affects current debate The material clearly indicates that the Federal Government is showing laxity in playing its role. Mental health services are important and the Ministry of Health must show commitment to increase the level of confidence in the people. The categories of people that will face severe consequences are the Indigenous because of their low social status. Therefore, it is high time the government speeds up and show direction to many mental health agencies currently unaware of their fate. Personal reflection Government systems require transformation to ensure that they work effectively and efficiently. As per now, there seems to be a very big problem in the Federal Government and the ministry of Health. Despite the government awareness of the various mental health programs, it should have prepared in advance to avoid such inconveniences. Enough money should be availed in time to ensure that these agencies continue to provide essential services to people especially Indigenous that are in dire need of the same. I do believe that the Federal Government can make valuable changes in its systems to improve in service delivery to the people. Media article six Ashford, K. (2014). Culture 'key' to treating Indigenous mental illness. April 5, 2014. Retrieved from: http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2014/04/15/culture-key-treating-indigenous-mental-illness Key issues This media article postulates that in treatment of mental illness, it is important to put into consideration the cultural aspect of the people. Cultures vary from one to another and introducing or tailoring treatment to people culture will enhance the process of recovery. It is estimated that more than twice of the people that suffer from extreme psychological stress are aboriginal compared to other Australians (Ashford, 2014). One in every three Indigenous people suffers from mental problem. Setting up of mental facilities such as Adelaide designed solely for clients from remote areas focusing on indigenous treatment is a step ahead to ensure proper management of mental challenges that many Aboriginal suffer from. The facility allows traditional therapists to provide their treatment to patients. The reason for this is to incorporate culture in the treatment process to ensure that patient recover from the ailments quickly. There is as well follow up after the treatments to ensure that the patients recover fully as nunkaris drawn from different places render their services depending on the background of the client and their needs. Links to the models and approaches Cultures do vary and in many cases, people will feel out of place in different cultures. It is therefore, a positive step to ensure that facilities and services are aligned in the context of the cultural backgrounds and needs of service recipients. The services provided in the facilities put into consideration the background of the people and this enhances recovery. It is therefore, advisable that such services be expanded in the country to enhance recovery. Government need to fully support and partner with such groups for the improvement of the health status of its people. How this material affects current debate The efforts underway especially at grassroots level are awesome and require full support of the government in terms of funding. This will go extra miles in uplifting the health status of people from disadvantaged backgrounds such as the Aboriginal. Incorporating traditional aspects or concepts in treating people suffering from mental problem is something that needs support from all the stakeholders. This will help to reduce the level of inequality and perceived discrimination in the Australian community (Smye & Browne, 2002). Personal reflection I do believe that it is easier to work with people by exemplifying what they value and what they feel to be part of. Putting to consideration cultural backgrounds of the clients will go greater miles in enhancing the level of recovery and health among the disadvantaged communities such as the Aboriginal. This is a noble idea and requires to be supported by all people that have goodwill. It is as well important that modern medication be incorporated to support traditional treatment options to ensure positive outcome. Conclusion It is the right of every member of the society to access to good health care regardless of his or her cultural background, religious beliefs and values. Prevalence of mental health problems amongst the Indigenous people is worrying. This trend requires immediate action as it may increase division among people. Indigenous people, non-Indigenous people in partnership with the government should show commitments in addressing this challenge to promote healthy living and diversity. References Anderson, S. (2015). Government will not redirect funds in ‘poorly planned’ mental health system. Retrieved from: http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2015/04/16/government- wont-redirect-funds-poorly-planned-mental-health-system Ashford, K. (2014). Culture 'key' to treating Indigenous mental illness. April 5, 2014. Retrieved from: http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2014/04/15/culture-key-treating- indigenous-mental-illness Chingaipe, S. (2014). Is racism affecting health outcomes for some Australians? Retrieved from: http://www.sbs.com.au/news/article/2014/02/21/racism-affecting-australians-health Chino, M. & DeBruyn, L. (2006). Building true capacity: Indigenous models for Indigenous communities. American Journal of Public Health, 96 (4), 596 -599. Congress 2014 Budget Response. (2014). Concern over impact of the Budget on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples. Nacchocommunique.com, May 2014. Retrieved from http://nacchocommunique.com/category/aboriginal-health-in-the-news/ Creative Spirits. (2015). Aboriginal culture - Mental health and Aboriginal people, Retrieved 25 May 2015 http://www.creativespirits.info/aboriginalculture/health/mental-health-and-aboriginal- people#ixzz3bBll1gu1 Liebenberg, L. & Ungar, M. (Eds.) (2008). Resilience in action: Working with youth across cultures and contexts. Toronto, ON: University of Toronto Press. Pro Bono. (2014). Mental Health Campaign for Indigenous Youth. September 30 2015. http://www.probonoaustralia.com.au/news/2014/09/mental-health-campaign-indigenous- youth# Scott, S. (2015). Mental health patients facing cuts to crucial services amid funding uncertainty: experts. March 24 2015. Retrieved from: http://www.abc.net.au/news/2015-03- 24/mental-health-patients-facing-cuts-to-crucial-services/6342530 Smye, V. & Browne, A. (2002). Cultural safety and the analysis of health policy affecting Aboriginal people. Nurse Researcher, 9(3),42 -56 Stoneham, M.J., Goodman, J., Daube, M. (2014). The Portrayal of Indigenous Health in selected Australian Media. The International Indigenous Policy Journal, 5(1). Retrieved from” http: // ir.lib.uwo.ca/iipj/vol5/iss1/5 Taylor, K. & Guerin, P. (2010). Health care and Indigenous Australians: Cultural safety in practice. Australia: Palgrave Macmillan. Read More