Tapasā Co-Founder Embarks on Research Trip to Samoa

Apia and Savaii, Samoa – In a pivotal step towards understanding the intersection of mental health and digital media among Samoan youth, Kayla Schwalger, co-founder of Tapasā, has embarked on a 10-day research trip to Samoa. This journey is a critical component of her Master's Degree thesis, "Navigating Mental Health in the Digital Age: Insights from Young Samoans and Their Communities."

During her time in Samoa, Kayla conducted a series of interviews and talanoa (conversations) with youth in both Apia and Savaii. She explored their experiences with mental health in the digital age, particularly focusing on the impact of social media and the stigma surrounding mental health issues. Her research aims to uncover both the positive and negative effects of the rapidly increasing use of social media on the mental health of Samoan youth, as well as how it influences their help-seeking behaviors.

Kayla also engaged with mental health and wellbeing practitioners and advocates in Samoa. Among them was the founder of Brown Girl Woke, an organization dedicated to transforming young minds and equipping the new generation with the resources to become confident and independent thought-leaders. Brown Girl Woke emphasizes inclusiveness and diversity, providing a platform where all voices are heard and action is taken. They recruit, train, and mentor university students and young professionals to meet critical community needs in education, public safety, health, and the environment.

"Honoured and proud to have one of our daughters of Samoa, Kayla Schwalger, coming home to do research on mental health for her Master's in Communication at Auckland University of Technology," stated the founder of Brown Girl Woke. "Thank you for choosing us to be a part of your amazing research!"

Another key figure in her research was Dr. George Tuitama, the only psychologist based in Samoa. Dr. Tuitama runs the Mental Health Ward at Motootua Hospital and is deeply involved in educating villages, workplaces, and schools about the history of mental health. Kayla's visit to the mental health unit provided her with valuable insights into the challenges and advancements in mental health care in Samoa.

In addition to these interactions, Kayla interviewed teachers from Pesega LDS College, the ex-principal of Robert Louis Stevenson College, and numerous youth aged 18-25 who have spent the majority of their lives in Samoa. These conversations aimed to gather diverse perspectives on how social media influences mental health and the existing stigma that affects young Samoans.

Kayla’s research not only seeks to highlight the current state of mental health among Samoan youth but also to identify potential digital tools that could be introduced into Samoan schools. These tools would aim to make mental health resources more accessible and educate young people on breaking the stigma surrounding mental health.

"Understanding the impact of digital media on youth mental health is crucial, especially in a rapidly changing environment like Samoa," Kayla said. "By integrating digital tools and educational resources, we can create a more supportive environment for young people to seek help and improve their overall wellbeing."

Kayla’s work is expected to contribute significantly to the field of mental health in Samoa and beyond. Her findings could pave the way for innovative approaches to mental health education and support, tailored to the unique cultural context of Samoan communities. She aims to complete her Master's Degree by the end of 2024, with the hope that her research will inform future initiatives to support mental health and wellbeing in the digital age.