UNDERSTANDING PASIFIKA MENTAL HEALTH IN NEW ZEALAND: A review of the literature

Abstract

Pasifika mental health continues to be a growing concern in New Zealand. This article reviews and presents online available research concerning the mental health of Pasifika in New Zealand. A comprehensive online literature search was conducted. In total, 967 online articles were identified, and 58 met the criteria to be included in the final review. The review identified overarching research themes related to Pacific mental health in New Zealand, specifically regarding mental health prevalence, mental health services, mental health perceptions, mental health prevention or intervention, and suicide. Further, this review explores the role that education, culturally appropriate services, and engaging community activities can play in preventing further mental health disparity among Pasifika in New Zealand.