Research Explores Link Between Cultural Connection and Mental Wellbeing

Te Whare Wānanga o Awanuiārangi is leading a multidisciplinary research effort examining the relationship between culture, identity and mental health. The findings reveal a quantifiable and measurable relationship between a stronger cultural connection and lower levels of anxiety and depression.

The study draws on antenatal data from Growing up in New Zealand, a large longitudinal study that began recruiting participants in 2009 and 2010. It examines the relationship between cultural connection and mental health indicators among Māori mothers and their partners - with a sample size of almost 2000.

The findings show clear associations between stronger cultural connections and fewer mental health concerns. This includes associations between connection to traditional culture and lower levels of perceived stress, as well as lower odds of participants reporting a previous diagnosis of depression or anxiety.

Awanuiārangi Executive Director of Research and Innovation, Professor Te Kani Kingi, explains the significance of the research.

“While the relationship between culture, identity, and mental wellbeing has long been promoted, few studies have been able to offer this type of empirically driven evidence.

“Insofar as these findings might inform mental health policy and service delivery, the research provides clear evidence of the idea that a strong culture and identity will support wellbeing.

“Further still, strategies designed to promote Māori mental health should necessarily include cultural components and interventions.”

The full report will be released in due course, providing further detail on the research, methodology, analysis, and findings.