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Mollons M, Levasseur-Puhach S, Kaur J, Doyle J, Giesbrecht G, Lebel CA, Woods L, Tomfohr-Madsen L, Roos L. Mixed-methods study exploring health service access and social support linkage to the mental well-being of Canadian Indigenous pregnant persons during the COVID-19 pandemic. BMJ Open 2024; 14:e078388. [PMID: 38553054 PMCID: PMC11005712 DOI: 10.1136/bmjopen-2023-078388] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES This study aimed to explore how the unprecedented stressors associated with the COVID-19 pandemic may have contributed to heightened levels of depression and anxiety among pregnant Indigenous persons, and identify protective individual-level factors. DESIGN The current study used a mixed-methods design including standardised questionnaires and open-ended response questions. Using hierarchical regression models, we examined the extent to which COVID-19-related factors of service disruption (ie, changes to prenatal care, changes to birth plans and social support) were associated with mental well-being. Further, through qualitative analyses of open-ended questions, we examined the coping strategies used by pregnant Indigenous persons in response to the pandemic. SETTING Participants responded to an online questionnaire consisting of standardised measures from 2020 to 2021. PARTICIPANTS The study included 336 self-identifying Indigenous pregnant persons in Canada. RESULTS Descriptive results revealed elevated rates of clinically relevant depression (52.7%) and anxiety (62.5%) symptoms among this population. 76.8% of participants reported prenatal care service disruptions, including appointment cancellations. Thematic analyses identified coping themes of staying informed, social and/or cultural connections and activities, and internal mental well-being strategies. Disruptions to services and decreased quality of prenatal care negatively impacted mental well-being of Indigenous pregnant persons during the COVID-19 pandemic. CONCLUSIONS Given the potential for mental well-being challenges to persist and long-term effects of perinatal distress, it is important to examine the quality of care that pregnant individuals receive. Service providers should advance policies and practices that promote relationship quality and health system engagement as key factors linked to well-being during the perinatal period for Indigenous persons.
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Affiliation(s)
- Meghan Mollons
- Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | | | - Jasleen Kaur
- Psychology, University of Regina, Regina, Saskatchewan, Canada
| | - Jennifer Doyle
- Educational and Counselling Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Gerald Giesbrecht
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, Province of Alberta, Canada
- Department of Community Health Sciences, University of Calgary, Calgary, Province of Alberta, Canada
| | - Catherine A Lebel
- Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute, Calgary, Province of Alberta, Canada
- Department of Radiology, University of Calgary, Calgary, Province of Alberta, Canada
| | | | - Lianne Tomfohr-Madsen
- Educational and Counselling Psychology, The University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Leslie Roos
- Psychology, University of Manitoba, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
- University of Manitoba Children's Hospital Research Institute, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Schultz K, Taylor E, McKinney S, Hamby S. Exploring strengths, psychological functioning and youth victimization among American Indians and Alaska Natives in four southern states. CHILD ABUSE & NEGLECT 2024; 148:106197. [PMID: 37208233 DOI: 10.1016/j.chiabu.2023.106197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2022] [Revised: 04/03/2023] [Accepted: 04/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/21/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Identifying factors that support healthy psychological functioning after experiencing violence or other adversities in youth can lead to better prevention and intervention efforts. This is particularly important among communities with disproportionately high rates of adversity resulting from legacies of social and political injustices, such as American Indian and Alaska Native populations. METHODS Data were pooled from four studies in the southern U.S. to examine a subsample of American Indian/Alaska Native participants (N = 147; mean age 28.54 years, SD = 16.3). Using the resilience portfolio model, we investigate the impact of three categories of psychosocial strengths (regulatory, meaning making, and interpersonal) on psychological functioning (subjective well-being and trauma symptoms), controlling for youth victimization, lifetime adversities, age, and gender. RESULTS In examining subjective well-being, the full model accounted for 52 % of the variance, with strengths explaining more variance than adversities (45 % vs 6 %). For trauma symptoms, the full model accounted for 28 % of the variance, with strengths and adversities accounting nearly equally for the variance (14 % and 13 %). DISCUSSION Psychological endurance and sense of purpose showed the most promise for bolstering subjective well-being while poly-strengths (having a diversity of multiple strengths) was most predictive of fewer trauma symptoms. Building psychosocial strengths offers promising strategies for prevention and intervention in Native nations and communities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Katie Schultz
- University of Michigan School of Social Work, 1080 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA,.
| | - Elizabeth Taylor
- Life Paths Research Center, Oakland University, 654 Pioneer Drive, Pryale Hall, Rochester, MI 48309, USA.
| | - Sherise McKinney
- University of Michigan School of Social Work, 1080 S University Ave, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA.
| | - Sherry Hamby
- Life Paths Research Center, University of the South, PO Box 187, Sewanee, TN 37375, USA.
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Mathias H, Foster LA, Rushton A. Programs and practices that support pregnant people who use drugs' access to sexual and reproductive health care in Canada: a scoping review. BMC Pregnancy Childbirth 2024; 24:72. [PMID: 38254076 PMCID: PMC10804510 DOI: 10.1186/s12884-023-06225-w] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/24/2024] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Pregnant people who use unregulated drugs (PPWUD) are at high risk of health complications yet experience a range of barriers to sexual and reproductive health care. Given that improving maternal health and access to reproductive health care are key targets underpinning the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG), there is an urgent need to improve access to appropriate supports and services for this population. Little is known about what programs and practices exist to support PPWUD's access to sexual and reproductive health care. This scoping review aimed to identify the available literature on these programs and practices in Canada. METHODS A scoping review was conducted using JBI methodology and reported using PRISMA guidelines. Scholarly databases and grey literature sources were searched to identify literature published between 2016-2023 in English or French that discussed, defined, conceptualised, or evaluated programs and practices that support PPWUD's access to sexual and reproductive health care in Canada. Identified literature was screened using Covidence. Data were extracted from included texts, then analysed descriptively. Frequencies and key concepts were reported. RESULTS A total of 71 articles were included, most of which were grey literature. Of the total, 46 unique programs were identified, as well as several useful practices. Most programs were in urban centres in Western Canada, and most programs offered holistic 'wrap-around services.' Several programs delivered these services on-site or as 'drop-in' programs with the support of staff with lived/living experience of substance use. Most frequent program outcomes included keeping parents and children together, improving connection to other services, and reducing substance use harms. Noted helpful practices included non-judgmental care and the use of harm-reduction strategies. CONCLUSIONS Several programs and practices that support PPWUD exist in Canada, though few focus exclusively on sexual and reproductive health. There remain opportunities to improve access to programs, including expanding geographic availability and range of services. The review has clinical application by providing an overview of available programs that may support clinicians in identifying services for PPWUD. Future research should consider client perspectives and experiences of these programs. REVIEW REGISTRATION NUMBER Open Science Framework https://osf.io/5y64j .
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Affiliation(s)
- Holly Mathias
- School of Public Health, University of Alberta, 11405 87 Ave NW, Edmonton, AB, T6G 1C9, Canada.
| | - Lesley Ann Foster
- Department of Cultural Studies, Queen's University, 99 University Ave, Kingston, ON, K7L 3N6, Canada
| | - Ashleigh Rushton
- Faculty of Health Sciences, The University of the Fraser Valley, 45190 Caen Ave, Chilliwack, B.C, V2R 0N3, Canada
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Sivak L, Reilly R, Lockton J, Treloar C, Roe Y, McKetin R, Butt J, Ezard N, Winkenweder H, Ward J. Psychosocial stress and methamphetamine use: A mixed-methods study of intersectional stigma and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander methamphetamine use. THE INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF DRUG POLICY 2023; 121:104189. [PMID: 37708599 DOI: 10.1016/j.drugpo.2023.104189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/02/2023] [Revised: 08/09/2023] [Accepted: 08/30/2023] [Indexed: 09/16/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Regular methamphetamine use can cause a range of physical, psychological and social harms. Stigma is one factor that impacts engagement and successful completion of treatment. In Australia, Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who regularly use methamphetamine experience multiple stigmas, which further compounds access to treatment and quality of life. This paper explores the cumulative and compounding effects of participating in a stigmatised activity such as illicit drug use in relation to the stigma experienced by Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people as a population marginalised through colonisation. METHODS Ten sites nationally participated in a cross-sectional survey measuring a range of factors including psychosocial stress in methamphetamine users. The survey sample size was 734, with 59% identifying as Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (n = 433). In addition, a total of 147 mainly Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people who use methamphetamine, community and family members, and service providers took part in a total of 19 focus groups and 7 interviews. RESULTS Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants experienced multiple psychosocial stressors at significantly higher rates than non-Indigenous participants. These stressors include diminished access to health care (33%), experiences of racism (34%), grief and sorrow (39%), worry for family (46%), and child welfare experiences (46%). The qualitative findings highlight the cumulative impact of historical, political and social stressors on an already stigmatised population. CONCLUSIONS The findings of this unique analysis demonstrate the disruptive impact of methamphetamine use on the lives of those who use methamphetamines and their family members. They also illustrate challenges, such as stigma, that may confront those seeking assistance for drug-related issues. Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community involvement is necessary to provide support and education for the individual, the family, and the community as a whole. Stigma reduction is therefore a worthy target for intervention.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leda Sivak
- Wardliparingga Aboriginal Health Equity Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Australia.
| | - Rachel Reilly
- Wardliparingga Aboriginal Health Equity Theme, South Australian Health and Medical Research Institute, Australia; School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Jane Lockton
- School of Psychology, University of Adelaide, Australia
| | - Carla Treloar
- Centre for Social Research in Health and the Social Policy Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Yvette Roe
- Molly Wardaguga Research Centre, Charles Darwin University, Australia
| | - Rebecca McKetin
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | - Julia Butt
- School of Arts and Humanities, Edith Cowan University, Australia
| | - Nadine Ezard
- National Drug and Alcohol Research Centre, University of New South Wales, Australia
| | | | - James Ward
- Poche Centre for Indigenous Health, University of Queensland, Australia
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Reynolds A, Keough MT, Blacklock A, Tootoosis C, Whelan J, Bomfim E, Mushquash C, Wendt DC, O'Connor RM, Burack JA. The impact of cultural identity, parental communication, and peer influence on substance use among Indigenous youth in Canada. Transcult Psychiatry 2023:13634615231191999. [PMID: 37796930 DOI: 10.1177/13634615231191999] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/07/2023]
Abstract
Heavy drinking and smoking have been found to be among the leading causes of morbidity and mortality within Indigenous youth in North America. The focus of this study was to examine the relative roles of cultural identity, parent-child communication about the harms of substance use (SU), and perception about peers' opinions on heavy drinking and cigarette smoking among Indigenous youth. Strong Indigenous cultural identity, parent-child communication about SU, and affiliation with peers who do not use and/or who disapprove of substance use were all expected to reduce risk for heavy drinking and smoking. Substance use beliefs were hypothesized to mediate these effects. Youth (N = 117; Mage = 14.07; grades 6-11) from two Indigenous communities in Quebec completed self-reports. Consistent with the hypotheses, strong cultural identity predicted increased negative beliefs about substance use, which predicted reduced drinking and smoking. Similarly, affiliating with peers who did not use alcohol predicted decreased positive beliefs about alcohol use, which predicted reduced drinking. Affiliating with peers who did not smoke cigarettes predicted reduced cigarette smoking. Parental influences were not supported in this model. Intervention strategies may benefit from targeting cultural identity, peer groups, and substance use beliefs among Indigenous youth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ashley Reynolds
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Matthew T Keough
- Department of Psychology, York University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Adrienne Blacklock
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | | | - Joseph Whelan
- Central Québec School Board, Quebec City, Quebec, Canada
| | - Emiliana Bomfim
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Christopher Mushquash
- Department of Psychology, Lakehead University, and Northern Ontario School of Medicine, Thunder Bay, Ontario, Canada
| | - Dennis C Wendt
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Roisin M O'Connor
- Department of Psychology, Concordia University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
| | - Jacob A Burack
- Department of Educational and Counselling Psychology, McGill University, Montreal, Quebec, Canada
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Allen L, Wodtke L, Hayward A, Read C, Cyr M, Cidro J. Pregnant and early parenting Indigenous women who use substances in Canada: A scoping review of health and social issues, supports, and strategies. J Ethn Subst Abuse 2022; 22:827-857. [PMID: 35238726 DOI: 10.1080/15332640.2022.2043799] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/18/2022]
Abstract
This study reviews and synthesizes the literature on Indigenous women who are pregnant/early parenting and using substances in Canada to understand the scope and state of knowledge to inform research with the Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre of Winnipeg in Manitoba and the development of a pilot Indigenous doula program. A scoping review was performed searching ten relevant databases, including one for gray literature. We analyzed 56 articles/documents. Themes include: (1) cyclical repercussions of state removal of Indigenous children from their families; (2) compounding barriers and inequities; (3) prevalence and different types of substance use; and (4) intervention strategies. Recommendations for future research are identified and discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Chris Read
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Monica Cyr
- Aboriginal Health and Wellness Centre, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
| | - Jaime Cidro
- University of Winnipeg, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada
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Peak JM, Ingram V, Urbanoski K, Milligan K. Specifying the Relations among PTSD Symptom Clusters and Parenting Stress in Mothers Engaged in Substance Use Treatment. Subst Use Misuse 2022; 57:1552-1562. [PMID: 35819030 DOI: 10.1080/10826084.2022.2096236] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/17/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Parenting stress is often heightened in mothers receiving treatment for substance use. Experiences of trauma are commonly seen in this population, which may give rise to Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) symptoms, including intrusion, avoidance, negative cognition and mood, and affective arousal. While past research has demonstrated a significant relation between PTSD symptoms and parenting stress, no studies have examined the relative contributions of these symptoms to parenting stress in mothers engaged in substance use treatment. METHODS Seventy-four mothers attending outpatient substance use treatment who were parenting children aged 0-3 years completed measures of parenting stress, PTSD, substance use, and depression symptoms. RESULTS A canonical correlation analysis indicated two canonical variates accounting for significant variance between PTSD symptom clusters and parenting stress measures. The first canonical variate, primarily reflecting depressive and PTSD cognition and mood symptoms, was predominantly related to the parental distress aspect of parenting stress (40%). The second canonical variate, primarily reflecting intrusion and avoidance PTSD symptoms, was associated with increased parental perceptions of their child as difficult (10%). CONCLUSION Future research directions and clinical implications of these results are discussed for designing parenting interventions with mothers attending substance use treatment who present with PTSD symptoms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Marie Peak
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Victoria Ingram
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Karen Urbanoski
- Public Health and Social Policy, University of Victoria, Victoria, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Karen Milligan
- Department of Psychology, Ryerson University, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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