20 July, 2023
The New Zealand Herald recently published an article about Headstrong, titled "Mana-enhancing app supporting mental health and wellbeing of rangatahi."
The Headstrong app, launched in 2022, is the result of collaboration between researchers at the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau and experts in digital innovation for youth mental health from the Department of Psychological Medicine. It draws on Māori, Pacific, and Western perspectives on science and utilizes Te Whare Tapa Whā, a holistic wellbeing model, as its core foundation.
One of the highlights of the Headstrong app is the newly launched "Kia Haumanu" course, which utilizes mātauranga Māori, cognitive behavioral therapy, and positive psychology strategies to help young people manage stress, deal with negative thoughts, and resolve conflicts. This course is an exciting blend of pūrākau, waiata, haka, and whakataukī from seven different rohe, reconnecting rangatahi to their Māoritanga.
What sets Kia Haumanu apart is its unique approach to engaging with young people. Headstrong is the first bilingual app, available in both te reo Māori and te reo Pākehā, with a virtual kaiāwhina, or chatbot guide. This guide provides a safe and confidential space for rangatahi to confide in without fear of social consequences, allowing them to relate to someone who understands their culture and the challenges they face as teenagers.
At Kekeno, we are incredibly proud to be a part of this transformative initiative that combines digital innovation with the wisdom of mātauranga Māori to support the mental wellbeing of rangatahi. We believe that the Kia Haumanu course will empower young people to revitalize and rebalance their hauora through culturally validating techniques. This is a significant step towards providing accessible and effective mental health support to rangatahi across New Zealand.
We commend the University of Auckland Waipapa Taumata Rau, the Department of Psychological Medicine, and all the rangatahi who contributed to the development of Kia Haumanu. Together, we are paving the way for a brighter and healthier future for our young generation.
Please feel free to read the full article in The New Zealand Herald to learn more about the inspiring work being done to enhance the mental health and wellbeing of rangatahi in Aotearoa.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/kahu/mana-enhancing-app-supporting-mental-health-and-wellbeing-of-rangatahi/VHEULGJN4NCNRHH3LT35QAQUNQ/
