SAMOAN CULTURAL KNOWLEDGE

KEY ELEMENTS OF AGANU’U FA’ASAMOA

• HISTORY

  Samoan history is founded on the complementary and equal relationship between people, god, spirits and the environment.  These relationships are protected by cultural protocols such as the va tapua’ia (the sacred space). Spirituality is core to Samoan culture and influences how people connect and interact with one another. Therefore, honouring the va tapua’ia between people and the environment is key to achieving peace, harmony, holistic health and mental wellbeing for Samoans.
  

• LANGUAGE

  Samoan culture is oratory in nature meaning that the Samoan language, Gagana Samoa, is inherently poetic and metaphorical, holding many meanings. In the Samoan language, the meaning of mental health and mental illness- can be understood and described in different terms.  Therefore, it is important to incorporate language support for Samoan consumers during discussions with mental health professionals. It is important to ensure that the causes and symptoms of mental illness are fully described and understood.

• PRACTICES

  The values of alofa- (love, compassion, empathy) and fa’aaloalo-(respecting and protecting the mana of others) are demonstrated in Samoan daily practices especially when engaging with others.  The absence of these values can cause mental distress, hopelessness, and distrust in relationships.

• SPIRITUALITY

  Spirituality is core to the Samoan culture as seen in our cultural performances, ava ceremonies and celebrations. Spirituality is also incorporated in traditional healing and cultural processes such as ifoga- (act of forgiveness), talanoa and fa’afaletui (discussion), and fa’aleleiga (reconciliation). Most Samoans prefer to seek traditional healing methods for ill-health and mental illness before considering western medical healthcare.

• CHRISTIANITY

  Christian faith and practices play an important role in the Samoan culture.  The practice of tatalo (prayer) and fasting (anapogi) are believed to be influenced by Samoan culture and Christianity inspired. These practices help Samoans to cope when experiencing mental distress and psychological unrest.  

• UNDERSTANDING MENTAL ILLNESS

  The Samoan interpretation of mental illness, as evidenced in research and literature, is believed to be caused by disrespecting cultural sacred boundaries- va tapua’ia - between a person, others and the environment. This highlights that mental illness is influenced by the Samoan culture and practices.