Reducing barriers and stigma surrounding mental health and alcohol and other drug services in native communities

Graduation Date

2015

Document Type

Project

Program

Other

Program

Project (M.S.W.)--Humboldt State University, Social Work, 2015

Committee Chair Name

Jennifer Maguire

Committee Chair Affiliation

HSU Faculty or Staff

Keywords

Humboldt State University -- Projects -- Social Work, Drugs, Mental health services, Alcohol, Native Americans

Abstract

Native Americans suffer from mental health and Alcohol and Other Drug issues at high rates, yet low rates of service utilization are reported. This study aims at uncovering the barriers associated with receiving formal services for MH and/or AOD in Native communities. A convenience sample of 60 participants (N=60) was drawn from two dif-ferent locations and interviews were conducted guided by a series of 12 questions intend-ing to uncover barriers to service utilization. A grounded theory approach was used to collect and analyze data. Three main themes that emerged from the data were the follow-ing: a) Mental health services are often associated with severe mental illness; b) assessing mental health services are often associated with fear, including stigma; and c) most Na-tives prefer a Native counselor. Implications are discussed and recommendations are made for more effective mental health service delivery aimed at serving Native American Peoples.

https://scholarworks.calstate.edu/concern/theses/1n79h6909

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