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. 2006 Nov;15(4):174-8.

Encounters with the north: psychiatric consultation with Inuit youth

Azaad Kassam  1
Affiliations

Encounters with the north: psychiatric consultation with Inuit youth

Azaad Kassam. J Can Acad Child Adolesc Psychiatry. 2006 Nov.

Abstract
in English, French

Introduction: The Inuit population of Canada experiences high rates of mental health problems. Youth are particularly affected, with rates of youth suicide among the highest in the world. Psychiatric consultation is one model that has been used to address this problem. Is this the most appropriate method to assist Inuit populations with these issues?

Methods: This review addresses this question by examining literature focusing on psychiatric consultation in Canada's north, especially that which pertains to Inuit populations.

Results: The traditional model of medical-psychiatric consultation has significant limitations including assumptions about its validity and usefulness, its segmented approach, and its individual focus.

Conclusion: Openness to other forms of knowledge, cultural competence, and understanding the importance of social factors are crucial in order for psychiatric consultation to be effective.

Introduction: La population Inuit du Canada connaît un taux élevé de problèmes de santé mentale. Les adolescents sont particulièrement touchés, leur taux de suicide étant l’un des plus élevés du monde. L’un des modèles utilisé pour étudier ce problème est la consultation psychiatrique. Estce la meilleure façon d’aider les Inuits à résoudre leurs problèmes?

Méthode: Cette étude traite de cette question et analyse la littérature portant sur les consultations psychiatriques dans le nord canadien, notamment auprès des Inuits.

Résultats: Le modèle traditionnel de consultation médical ou psychiatrique a de sérieuses limites, notamment en ce qui a trait à sa validité et à son utilité, à son approche compartimentée et à son objectif individuel.

Conclusion: L’ouverture à d’autres formes de connaissances, la connaissance de la culture et la compréhension des facteurs sociaux sont essentiels à l’efficacité des consultations psychiatriques.

Keywords: Aboriginal; Inuit; consultationliaison; culture; youth.

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