Beliefs and Practices on Depression Among Selected Filipino Indigenous Peoples: A Focused Ethnography

Abstract

Introduction: Depression beliefs and practices among indigenous peoples are essential to creating responsive mental health services. The purpose of the study is to explore the cultural beliefs and practices on depression among the Ilocanos, Kankana-eys, and Maranaos indigenous peoples in the Philippines. Method: The study employed a focused ethnography research design. The study involved 41 ( N = 41) traditional healers and tribal leaders across Ilocano, Kankana-ey, and Maranao ethnic groups in the Philippine Islands. Interviews, reviews of records, and participant observation were used as data gathering tools. Results: Beliefs about depression include magico-spiritual influence, relational problems, economic pressure, and emotional domains. Practices were divided into three domains: preventive, curative, and rehabilitative interventions. Discussion: The depression beliefs and practices of Ilocano, Kankana-ey, and Maranao indigenous peoples are rooted in their tradition, culture, religion, and medical influences largely rooted in magico-spiritual approaches. These findings suggest the inclusion of culturally-based care to address depression.