Two Eskimo villages assess mental health strengths and needs.

Abstract

Due to a growing consensus of the inadequacy of the current mental health system in rural Alaska, an assessment of mental health strengths and needs was conducted in two Eskimo villages. Respondents were 216 Eskimos who completed a structured interview. Results document perceptions of problems and strengths unique to the village cultures and settings. To increase effectiveness, programs must take into account the perspectives expressed by village people.