A new report from the Mental Health and Wellbeing Commission shows that more should be done to improve mental health and wellbeing outcomes of Pacific peoples.
The report, Achieving equity of Pacific mental health and wellbeing outcomes, offers a snapshot of New Zealand’s Pacific peoples state of wellbeing. Across almost every measure of wellbeing, Pacific peoples face greater challenges than the rest of the population.
Director for Wellbeing System Leadership and Insights Dr Ella Cullen says, “Pacific peoples don’t have access to the essential building blocks they need to ensure they can thrive in Aotearoa. There are ongoing barriers to equitable access to education opportunities, appropriate housing, and adequate incomes.”
“We want to see a continued focus on mental health and wellbeing outcomes for Pacific peoples. This will require increased and concerted effort across all government agencies, and ongoing leadership from the Ministry for Pacific Peoples and Pacific leaders,” Cullen added.
Dr Cullen says despite the challenges, the report also shows that Pacific families are a continued source of wellbeing for Pacific peoples. The report recommends evidence-based solutions, starting with increasing and resourcing Pacific-led services that are better equipped to support people and their families with their immediate mental health and wellbeing needs. Giving resources to Pacific community organisations is one solution to addressing the gap between mental health and wellbeing outcomes for Pacific peoples in comparison to the rest of Aotearoa.
The extension of Whānau Ora to Pacific communities provides an example. These services work with families to identify and achieve their ambitions for education, health, financial freedom, community connection, and community resilience.
A major constraint on delivering effective services is improving how they are funded. Introducing a contracting model built on trust will ensure Pacific organisations can meet the diverse needs of their communities.
“New Zealand needs to set Pacific people up for success, and that starts with addressing the root causes of mental health and wellbeing. Our reputation as a land of opportunity, and our future economy, depends on it,” Cullen said.
The report and infographic here.
