Abstract
This study analyzes descriptive data among a clinical sample of American Indian/Alaska Native (AI/AN) youths receiving mental
health services in a large California metropolitan area. Among 118 urban AI/AN youths, mood disorders (41.5%) and adjustment
disorder (35.4%) were the most common mental health diagnoses. Alcohol (69.2%) and marijuana (50.0%) were the most commonly
used substances. Witnessing domestic violence (84.2%) and living with someone who had a substance abuse problem (64.7%) were
reported. The majority of patients demonstrated various behavior and emotional problems. Enhancing culturally relevant mental
health and substance abuse treatment and prevention programs for urban AI/AN youth is suggested.
health services in a large California metropolitan area. Among 118 urban AI/AN youths, mood disorders (41.5%) and adjustment
disorder (35.4%) were the most common mental health diagnoses. Alcohol (69.2%) and marijuana (50.0%) were the most commonly
used substances. Witnessing domestic violence (84.2%) and living with someone who had a substance abuse problem (64.7%) were
reported. The majority of patients demonstrated various behavior and emotional problems. Enhancing culturally relevant mental
health and substance abuse treatment and prevention programs for urban AI/AN youth is suggested.
- Content Type Journal Article
- DOI 10.1007/s10597-010-9368-3
- Authors
- Daniel L. Dickerson, Integrated Substance Abuse Programs, University of California Los Angeles, 1640 S. Sepulveda Boulevard, Suite 200, Los Angeles, CA 90025, USA
- Carrie L. Johnson, United American Indian Involvement, Inc., 1125 W. 6th Street, Suite 103, Los Angeles, CA 90026, USA
- Journal Community Mental Health Journal
- Online ISSN 1573-2789
- Print ISSN 0010-3853