Pacific Men’s Mental Health: The Influence of Culture and the Path to Positive Well-being
In recent years, the mental health of Pacific men has become an increasingly important topic, with growing recognition of the unique cultural factors that shape their experiences.
We spoke to Auckland University of Technology lecturer Lefaoali’i Dr. Dion Enari, whose work sheds light on the intricate relationship between Pacific men’s mental health and cultural heritage.
"Those more entrenched in their Pacific cultures are more likely to have more positive well-being experiences."
Lefaoali’i's research, which examines Pacific communities in New Zealand and Australia, reveals that men who are more deeply connected to their cultural roots tend to have more positive mental health outcomes.
Understanding and embracing their cultural identity provides these men with a sense of belonging and purpose, which can prove crucial for navigating life's challenges in mainstream society.
Cultural context plays a pivotal role in how Pacific men view themselves and their mental health. Lefaoali’i notes that Pacific men who are well-versed in their cultures "tend to have a better understanding of their place in the world."
This cultural knowledge offers not only a historical grounding but also wisdom that can be drawn upon to deal with contemporary issues, such as mental health struggles.
Stigma and Mental Health Among Pacific Men
However, despite the positive impact of cultural connection, the stigma surrounding mental health remains a significant barrier to seeking help.
"Stigma can silence our men to sit in their pain and fester over it."
This harmful silence can prevent Pacific men from opening up about their mental health challenges and hinder their ability to seek help.
The need to break down this stigma is clear. "Remove the stigma, speak your truth, and claim your narrative," says Lefaoali’i. There is an increasing priority to create spaces where Pacific men can openly discuss their mental health without fear of judgment or shame.
The Role of Pacific Communities in Supporting Mental Health
Lefaoali’i also highlights the essential role that Pacific communities play in addressing mental health issues.
He advocates for more open conversations within these communities, stressing the importance of communication: "It comes down to talking, talk, talk, talk."
By fostering an environment where men feel heard and supported, communities can begin to dismantle the barriers that prevent men from seeking help.
Additionally, Lefaoali’i calls for more qualified mental health professionals within Pacific communities. He acknowledges that while open discussions are vital, they must be supported by professionals who understand the unique cultural context in which Pacific men operate.
As Pacific communities continue to engage in these conversations, the hope is that more Pacific men will feel empowered to seek help, share their stories, and, ultimately, experience improved mental health outcomes.