Authors: Daniel Dickerson et al.

Publication Year: 2023

Last Updated: 

Journal: American Indian and Alaska Native Mental Health Research

Keywords: Cultural Sensitivity and Appropriateness; Mental and Behavioral Health; Tobacco Use (non-traditional); Homelessness

Abstract: Although over 70% of American Indians and Alaska Natives (AI/ANs) reside in urban areas, our knowledge of urban AI/AN adults receiving mental health treatment is limited. This study compares primary psychiatric diagnoses, commercialized tobacco use, and homelessness between AI/AN and non-AI/AN adults receiving services in an urban public mental health agency serving primarily AI/AN people in southern California. Depressive disorders were the most common psychiatric diagnoses for both groups. However, AI/AN adult clients demonstrated significantly less anxiety disorders and significantly more homelessness. Schizophrenia spectrum and other psychotic disorders, bipolar and related disorders, and commercialized tobacco use were higher among AI/AN adults compared to non-AI/AN adults. Results from this study offer data needed to further understand important public health issues that exist among AI/AN adults receiving mental health services in urban areas. We provide suggestions to enhance integrated and culturally appropriate treatment approaches and homelessness initiatives for this under-resourced, yet resilient population.

 Source: Link to Original Article.

Source: https://coloradosph.cuanschutz.edu/docs/librariesprovider205/journal_files/vol30/30_1_2023_14_dickerson.pdf