Why are Hawaiians so mentally ill?
The exact reason why Hawaiians have such high rates of mental illness is not entirely clear. It is believed, however, that a combination of factors may be contributing to this such as high levels of unemployment, poor social connectedness, and a long history of oppression. Cultural factors such as traditional beliefs may play a role, too.
No reliable data exists for the prevalence of mental illness among Hawaiians, but according to experts, poverty and lack of access to health care are major factors that can contribute to an elevated risk for mental illness among all racial/ethnic minority populations, including Native Hawaiians. Additional potential factors include histories of trauma, substance abuse, and cultural disruption, as well as social isolation and environmental factors. Cultural beliefs and values may also contribute to higher rates of untreated mental health issues.
No reliable data exists for the prevalence of mental illness among Hawaiians, but according to experts, poverty and lack of access to health care are major factors that can contribute to an elevated risk for mental illness among all racial/ethnic minority populations, including Native Hawaiians. Additional potential factors include histories of trauma, substance abuse, and cultural disruption, as well as social isolation and environmental factors. Cultural beliefs and values may also contribute to higher rates of untreated mental health issues.
The exact reason why Hawaiians have such high rates of mental illness is not entirely clear. It is believed, however, that a combination of factors may be contributing to this such as high levels of unemployment, poor social connectedness, and a long history of oppression. Cultural factors such as traditional beliefs may play a role, too.