Aboriginal women : promoting self, family and community health

Abstract

This study tells the stories of 16 Aboriginal women of how they promote their health, as well as the health of their families and communities. There is a focus on the definition of health using a medicine wheel depiction and the determinants of health that are currently recognized by Health Canada. Four additional determinants were identified by the women in this study and a discussion regarding each is included. This study was viewed through a feminist lens. The qualitative method used was women-centred interviewing of a convenience sample of 16 Aboriginal women residing in rural Manitoba. Content analysis of the verbatim transcripts revealed the following themes and sub-themes: health defined- lifestyle choices; physical, emotional, intellectual and spiritual health; healthy self; 1 need to be me - the importance of self care - promoting my health; having faith; hopes and dreams; barriers to being healthy - shame; racism; addiction; domestic violence; abuse; teenage pregnancy; poverty; promoting health in my family - healthy family; taking care of my children; perceived social supports; and promoting health in my community, it takes a community to raise a child - healthy community; strong leadership; employment, housing, education and safety; and lack of available services. The categories are identified in Health Canada's determinants of health with the exception of: faith, social equality, healthy partner relationships and strong community leadership. Implications for nursing education and practice, policy and research are discussed. There are 10 recommendations for future consideration.