Depression Associated with Indigenous People Reflection
Depression is considered a health concern among indigenous people since it affects their wellbeing and emotional health. According to Gubhaju et al (2013) indigenous people are more prone to anxiety and depression than non-indigenouspersons. Reports indicated that twice the number ofindigenous people aged over forty-five years suffered from depression as compared to the non-indigenous people. Depression has been linked to various social determinants namely; discrimination, racism, financial constraints, poor education, colonization and poverty among others. For the poster presentation, in collaboration with my team members, I decided to place emphasis on this health concern since a large percentage of indigenous Australians suffer from this issue based on the above social determinants. For instance, a large percentage of indigenous households are unable to afford basic commodities due to financial constraints (Australian Bureau of Statistics,2012). This topic was of much interest despite conflicting perceptions on handling the assignment. Some members preferred daily provision of progress through emails.
Gibbs (1988) reflective cycle provides a systematic approach of critically reflecting on the group work learning experience from description to action plan (Jasper, 2003).I felt encouraged considering the fact that I was learning how group work operates. The encouragement came from the ability to realize that team work entails delegation of duties among each group member. Conversely, I was frustrated considering that some of my input was ignored. Generally, I had a sense of encouragement.
In relation to evaluation, one positive aspect of this learning experience was my sense research skills. I was able to gather information concerning the way indigenous people view depression after conducting research from the library, books and over the internet. For example, my research showed that indigenous people have symptoms of depression which are difficult to recognize due to cultural differences and communication barriers. This was used for the poster making feeling to have positively contributed. On the contrary, a negative aspect was the fact that I did not realize nurses are supposed to collaborate with family members in multicultural settings.
In relation to analysis, this learning experience expanded my knowledge on the importance of cross cultural communication. Working with different members from different cultural backgrounds made me realize that listening, understanding and accommodation are important skills in any effective group work. The experience made me realize that cultural awareness and communication are important aspects in the nursing practice. According to Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (2013) nurses are responsible for cultural awareness, social equality and beliefs for quality patient care. This means that there should be respect for cultural diversity even among the indigenous people.
In conclusion, having more time with the culturally diverse population would have expanded my knowledge and helped my group gather more information concerning indigenous people. As an action plan, I will critically analyze my own beliefs and values in future in order to understand the various cultural backgrounds and provide informed and quality patient care. This should be in accordance with the nursing competency standards of therapeutic care and cultural diversity (Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia, 2013). Furthermore, regular training would keep me equipped with advanced skills necessary for quality patient care.
References
Australian Bureau of Statistics (2012). 4704.0- The Health and Welfare of Australia’s Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples, Oct 2010. Retrieved from http://www.abs.gov.au/AUSSTATS/abs@.nsf/lookup/4704.0Chapter100Oct+2010.
Gibbs, G. (1988). Learning and doing: A guide to teaching and learning methods. Oxford, England: Further Education Unit, Oxford Brookes University.
Gubhaju, L., McNamara, B.J., Banks, E., Joshy, G., Raphael, B., Williamson, A., & Eades, S.J. (2013). The overall health and risk factor profile of Australian Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants from the 45 and up study. BMC Public Health, 13(1). doi: 10.1186/1471-2458-13-661.
Jasper, M. (2003). Beginning Reflective Practice-Foundation in Nursing and Health Care. Cheltenham: Nelson Thornes.
Nursing and Midwifery Board of Australia (2013). National competencystandards for the registered nurse. Retrieved fromhttp://www.nursingmidwiferyboard.gov.au