Abstract:The Pacific Mental Health Survey Series is a regional research initiative led by Te Poutoko Ora a Kiwa in partnership with Ministries of Health in Samoa, Tonga, Tokelau, and Niue, funded by New Zealand’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade. This study aims to address critical mental health data gaps across Pacific Island countries through culturally informed, country-led research. By generating robust, nation-specific evidence, the project seeks to inform policy, strengthen services, and guide the development of a locally relevant mental health workforce. The study commenced in Samoa and Tonga in 2023, following extensive national and village-level consultations to co-design survey design, tools, and implementation strategies. Approximately 1,000 participants across both countries were surveyed using validated and culturally adapted instruments, including the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10), Alcohol Use Disorders Identification Test (AUDIT), single-item WHO Happiness Scale, and the Mini International Neuropsychiatric Interview (MINI). Key domains included psychological distress, mental health disorders, well-being, social support, and access to mental health services. Preliminary findings from Samoa and Tonga indicate high levels of psychological distress, particularly among women, with anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation commonly reported. Severe disorders such as psychosis and schizophrenia were not found to be more prevalent. Climate change emerged as a notable mental health stressor, with concerns over displacement due to extreme weather events. While overall alcohol use was low, harmful drinking patterns among a subset of young men were linked to social harms, including violence and injury. The project has now expanded to Tokelau and Niue, maintaining its commitment to culturally respectful and collaborative research. By centering Pacific worldviews and supporting local ownership, the survey fosters sustainable, community-driven responses to mental health needs, thus enhancing wellbeing and data equity across the Pacific region.
Keywords: Mental Health, Mental health, Pacific, Tokelau, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, national survey, AUDIT, K10, MINI diagnostic tool, equity, local ownership, collaboration, genuine partnership
