University: Aboriginal Mental Health Best Assessment Method Report

This report examines the critical issue of mental health within the Aboriginal population, highlighting the impact of historical and cultural factors such as colonization and discrimination. It analyzes the limitations of current assessment methods and emphasizes the need for culturally sensitive approaches. The report explores the application of the 4A’s framework and the collaborative model, discussing the importance of creating welcoming healthcare environments. It also evaluates the use of cultural mapping tools like eco-maps and genograms, acknowledging their role in understanding family dynamics while also addressing potential drawbacks. The report references key studies and emphasizes the need for a comprehensive and collaborative approach to address the unique challenges faced by Aboriginal communities in accessing mental healthcare services.

Running head: BEST ASSESSMENT METHOD FOR ABORIGINAL MENTAL HEALTH
BEST ASSESSMENT METHOD FOR ABORIGINAL MENTAL HEALTH
Name of the University
Author Note

BEST ASSESSMENT METHOD FOR ABORIGINAL MENTAL HEALTH
Response to post
The issue of vulnerability of the Aboriginal population towards mental health issues
cannot be denied. Since, 2014, there had been a dramatic increase in the aboriginal rates of
anxiety, suicide, depression as well as cognitive disability and perinatal mental health.
One of the main reasons behind this is the history of colonization. The aboriginal
people have long been separated from their identity and culture. The history of the
colonization, discrimination based on race and culture has continuously influenced their
health and wellbeing (Dudgeon et al., 2014). Although the 4A’s framework -Awareness,
Anticipation, Alternatives and Access to Mental Health interventions are being followed
through the aboriginal communities, the effectiveness of all the elements in all the sectors in
questionable. In spite of the actions taken, people get deprived of their basic human rights
and equal access to health care, such as the primary care services, life saving medicines,
proper education and employment. Again, in regards to the collaborative model used, it will
certainly focus on other issues as well, apart from the mental health. A collaborative model
would definitely provide numerous opportunities to create welcoming health care spaces,
where the community members can that they belonged, were accepted and were understood.
It has been rightfully stated that cultural mapping tools, eco maps and genograms are
acceptable to understand the family relationships (Stewart & Allan, 2013). They help in
giving a comprehensive structure of the family dynamics, the family member’s connection
with the community to social support systems like housing support, counseling, justice
programs, income supports. However, the disadvantages associated with these tools are that
the patients might hesitate to open up and eco-maps are difficult to read. Thus, a
collaborative assessment technique should definitely be used.

BEST ASSESSMENT METHOD FOR ABORIGINAL MENTAL HEALTH

BEST ASSESSMENT METHOD FOR ABORIGINAL MENTAL HEALTH
References
Dudgeon, W., Wright, M., Paradies, Y., Garvey, D., & Walker, I. (2014). Aboriginal social,
cultural and historical contexts. In Working together: Aboriginal and Torres Strait
Islander mental health and wellbeing principles and practice (pp. 3-24).
Commonwealth Department of Health.
Stewart, J., & Allan, J. (2013). Building relationships with Aboriginal people: A cultural
mapping toolbox. Australian Social Work, 66(1), 118-129.