Understanding the Challenges Faced by Inuit Youth in Arviat
Inuit youth in Arviat, Nunavut, face significant barriers to accessing sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services. The research article "Staying healthy 'under the sheets': Inuit youth experiences of access to sexual and reproductive health and rights in Arviat, Nunavut, Canada" provides critical insights into these challenges. This blog post aims to highlight key findings from the study and suggest ways practitioners can use these insights to improve their skills and the services they provide.
Key Findings from the Research
The study identified three major themes that affect Inuit youth's access to SRHR resources:
- Trust Issues: Many youths do not trust health workers due to the transiency of staff and concerns about confidentiality. Building trust is crucial for effective healthcare delivery.
- Stigma and Taboos: Cultural taboos and stigmas surrounding SRHR topics prevent open discussions and access to necessary resources.
- Feelings of Powerlessness: Female and LGBTQ youth, in particular, feel disempowered, which hinders their ability to seek care and support.
Implementing Research Outcomes
Practitioners can enhance their skills and service delivery by considering the following strategies:
- Build Trust: Establish long-term relationships with the community to foster trust. Consistent presence and engagement can help overcome the barrier of transiency.
- Address Stigmas: Create safe spaces for open dialogue about SRHR. Education programs should be culturally sensitive and inclusive, addressing specific community needs.
- Empower Youth: Develop programs that empower female and LGBTQ youth, providing them with the knowledge and confidence to access SRHR services.
Encouraging Further Research
Practitioners are encouraged to conduct further research to explore the unique challenges faced by Inuit youth. Collaborative research efforts that involve community members can lead to more effective, culturally tailored interventions. By understanding the local context and incorporating community feedback, practitioners can design programs that truly meet the needs of Inuit youth.
To read the original research paper, please follow this link: Staying healthy “under the sheets”: Inuit youth experiences of access to sexual and reproductive health and rights in Arviat, Nunavut, Canada.
