New Zealand born Cook Islands youth views towards positive mental wellbeing and suicide prevention

Abstract

The aim of this study was to gain a better understanding of New Zealand-born (NZ-born) Cook Islands young peoples’ (16-24 years) perceptions toward positive mental wellbeing and its potential to discourage suicidal behaviours. It is envisaged that this research will contribute to the long term goal of improving mental wellbeing and suicidal behaviours amongst young Cook Islands people by promoting the positive aspects associated with life. The key objectives of this study has been to define mental wellbeing, identify risk and protective factors for suicidal behaviours, and inform the development of a positive mental wellbeing framework as constructed by NZ-born Cook Islands youth themselves. This was a qualitative investigation, where 21 NZ-born Cook Islands youth were interviewed using a semi-structured questionnaire. The talanoa research process was utilised for the interview process. All interviews were recorded, transcribed and then analysed using a grounded theory approach to extrapolate data and analyses. This study has recognised that positive mental wellbeing for NZ-born Cook Islanders are influenced by a multitude of factors that include: being loved and supported by family and friends, maintaining good physical health, staying connected and having a balanced life. This research emphasises that support systems such as family and friends are central to achieving and maintaining positive mental wellbeing for NZ-born Cook Islands young peoples. It is important these young people are supported by support systems they feel are effective. Factors such as identity, culture, family and spirituality were also found to play an important role in promoting positive mental wellbeing and suicide prevention for NZ born Cook Islands youth. This study also found that Cook Islands communities need to start talking about the issue of suicide and to increase suicide prevention awareness. Currently, there is a lack of Cook Islands mental wellbeing models targeting NZ-born Cook Islands youth. This research is an attempt to contribute to this gap. This research may be of benefit for health care providers, health professionals, mental health services, policy makers, Pacific and Cook Islands communities to ensure that NZ-born Cook Islanders mental wellbeing is prioritised in order to reduce suicidal behaviours in this population.