A new study from researchers at Te Kura Tapuhi explores mental health among Māori youth in Aotearoa New Zealand through an ecological lens, examining how interconnected factors shape well-being. Indigenous youth face unique challenges, including systemic inequities, cultural disconnection, and socio-economic pressures, which elevate mental health risks. The research identifies both risk and protective factors across individual, family, community, and societal levels. Protective influences include strong cultural identity, whānau (family) support, and access to culturally grounded services, while risks often stem from discrimination, poverty, and limited mental health resources. By framing mental health within an ecological model, the study emphasises the need for holistic, culturally responsive interventions that strengthen resilience and promote equity. Findings call for collaborative strategies involving education, health systems, and Māori communities to address structural barriers and enhance protective environments. This approach offers critical insights for policy and practice aimed at improving outcomes for Indigenous youth.
The article, published in BMC public health is freely available at this link: https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/s12889-025-24845-z
Data for this research were drawn from the Youth19 study, you can read other reports and articles from this study at their website here: https://www.youth19.ac.nz/publications-folder
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