Differences between Indigenous Samis and Norwegians in Mental Disorders and Background Factors: Patients Listed as Under Treatment at the DPS–Lakselv (County District Psychiatric Centre),Finnmark,Spring 2000

Abstract

Background: Earlier comparisons of adult Samis and Norwegians living within the same area are–thus far–unknown concerning mental well being/health and possible background factors.

Aim: To compare patients from the two communities in search of differences which may be useful in planning health services.

Method: Retrospective and anonymised data collected from journals. Comprises 48 ‘Samis’ and 70 ‘Norwegians’ in 108 ‘demographic cells’ according to ethnicity, sex, municipality, education and age.

Results: ‘Samis’ rated higher in schizophrenia/psychosis (0.05 < p < 0.1) and crises (0.1 < p < 0.25), ‘Norwegians’ rated higher in anxiety disorders (0.001 < p < 0.005), low self-esteem (0.005 < p < 0.01), illegal drugs (0.01 < p < 0.025) and in identity/existential problems (0.1 < p< 0.25). ‘Samis’ appeared to have suffered more at provincial boarding schools (0.005 < p < 0.01), while ‘Norwegians’ presented more mental illnesses in their families (0.025 < p < 0.05), more family break-ups (0.05 < p < 0.1) and earlier alcohol/drug abuse (0.05 < p< 0.1).

Conclusion: Significant differences were found. ‘In the black box’ results will raise interesting questions for further research, but will also be useful for planning health services.

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