Indigenous mental health 2035: future takers, future makers and transformational potential

Area of Science:

• Indigenous Health Research
• Mental Healthcare Policy
• Public Health

Background:

• Review of Indigenous mental health progress over the past 25 years.
• Analysis of Māori involvement in health and healthcare developments since 1984.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review Indigenous mental health progress.
• To identify future directions for Indigenous mental health over the next 25 years.

Main Methods:

• Utilized Māori involvement in health as a case study for Indigenous developments.
• Discussed future challenges considering demographic, epidemiological, global, and technological trends.

Main Results:

• Progress measured by life expectancy, health agendas, cultural identity, knowledge dissemination, and participation.
• Advocated for 'future makers' over 'future takers' for Indigenous aspirations.
• Highlighted integrated, intersectoral, family-focused approaches for health advancement.

Conclusions:

• Dedicated approaches to family wellbeing are crucial for advancing Indigenous health.
• Integrated strategies that focus on strengths and avoid fragmentation lead to better outcomes.
• Family-centered care promotes positive outcomes for individuals and the collective family unit.