Na gaunisala me vakavinakataki kina na bula ni vakasama: The way towards positive mental wellbeing. Frontline perspectives of the mental health system in Fiji

Abstract

Mental health and mental healthcare are growing global concerns. Within the Pacific, mental health is one of the most underserved areas of healthcare. Due to the well-documented growing need within Pacific populations for robust and accessible mental healthcare services, it is imperative that research is undertaken in the mental health space within the Pacific to inform and support these services. Fiji has a mental healthcare system that serves its population of over 900,000 people that is informed by two main policy documents: The Mental Health Decree (2010) and the National Mental Health and Suicide Prevention Policy (2015). Prior to beginning this study consultation was undertaken in Fiji with key stakeholders within the mental health system in Fiji who highlighted the need for this research. This study captures the voices of 13 frontline workers within the mental health system in Fiji through online talanoa due to the COVID-19 worldwide pandemic. This study examines the two aforementioned policy documents alongside frontline workers’ perceptions of their efficacy on mental health service delivery in Fiji. This research also discusses frontline workers perspectives on Fiji’s COVID-19 response within the mental health sector. The research also presents recommendations based on the findings to support a stronger more accessible mental healthcare system in Fiji.