Depression Research

Depression has been shown to be problematic in American Indian communities based on a depression study by Dr. Tassy Parker. For American Indian women in particular, ages 18-64, it is estimated 26.1 percent reported serious psychological distress with Whites at 16.7 percent, Hispanics at 14.1 percent and African American at 13.5 percent (Kaiser Family Foundation, 2008). Further, results showed the same consistency for American Indian women with postpartum depression symptoms based on a 2004-2007 New Mexico Department of Health survey/study.

Using CBPR to gather community-defined evidence about American Indian Depression and Depression care in 2008-2010, the following instruments were used:

• consumer survey
• community advisory board – AI Women’s Depression study
• in-depth interview
• a second community advisory board – Intergraded care study

After the results were concluded, a summary of findings about depression care beliefs and preferences among American Indian women and men were created. Eventually, this list was discussed with partners, collaborators, the general public, and as a result, a building was purchased by the First Nations Community Health Source in order to address depression which we refer to as The All Nations Wellness and Healing Center (ANWHC). By putting “research into action” the All Nations Wellness and Healing Center in the homestretch to opening its doors for essential services that will benefit the local Albuquerque American Indian community pertaining to advancing emotional, physical, mental, and cultural health.

For more information, contact Tassy Parker, PhD by phone 505-272-4100 or email TaParker@salud.unm.edu.