Creation of an instrument for pediatric mental health in indigenous people: A participatory design

Abstract

Indigenous communities represent a population group with multiple vulnerabilities that are exacerbated in low- and middle-income countries. The group of children and youths faces exposure to adverse living conditions that add to the complexity of the values and meanings they give to life, well-being, and health, especially mental health. In this sense, it is essential to find culturally sensitive approaches for the recognition of such meanings from mental health and its aspects of affectation. Therefore, we sought to describe a methodological process of co-construction and cultural approach with indigenous communities of an early detection instrument for mental disorders and spiritual disharmonies in childhood and youth. This study corresponded to the qualitative phase of a sequential, contextual mixed methods design, based on moments from the implementation of a Participatory Action Research methodology. It was found that collaborative processes of cultural approach in research allow for more precise knowledge of special importance for the recognition of alterations in mental health, which is also reflected in better processes of understanding needs, desires, and possibilities in mental health and that in turn allows for the development of timely actions of recognition and accompaniment. It is necessary to continue with the development processes of culturally appropriate methodologies for mental health research in indigenous communities.