Reviewing the literature on anxiety and depression in Pacific youth: A fresh perspective

Abstract

Introduction: The primary aim of this review was to investigate the current prevalence of anxiety and depression in Pacifc youth who live both in Westernised countries and the Pacifc region. A secondary aim was to identify key themes that underpinned anxiety and depression in Pacifc youth. Methods: Literature on the Pacifc peoples of New Zealand, the United States, and the Pacifc Islands within the last 15 years was examined. 91 pieces of evidence were collected. The databases Scopus, Medline, PubMed and Google Scholar were used to gather literature. Result: The evidence suggests that Pacifc youth have a higher prevalence of mental illnesses such as anxiety and depression compared to other ethnic groups. Common risk factors and protective factors from the literature that contribute to Pacifc youth mental illness include spirituality, religion, culture, and family. In the Pacifc Islands, urbanisation and modernisation are major risk factors for Pacifc youth mental illness. For Pacifc youth living in countries such as New Zealand and the United States, migration and acculturation are important risk factors. Conclusion: This review has amalgamated various perspectives from studies on the topic of mental health in Pacifc youth. The fndings may provide evidence for mental health services that cater to Pacifc youth. More research is needed, and the gaps of knowledge identifed serve as a basis for future research possibilities.