Lay summary
Positive mental health outcomes are a priority for the Cook Islands, with efforts in place to meet the needs of the population. However, current knowledge of who is impacted by mental health issues, where they are, and the extent of their mental health needs are limited. To date, there has been no epidemiological study to identify the prevalence of mental illness in the Cook Islands population. This project will conduct a mental health survey across the island of Rarotonga to identify experiences and history of mental illness, prevalence of diagnosis, and prevalence of symptoms for mental illness. It is expected the new information this project will usher in and inform a new approach of the mental health priorities and resource allocations to support the mental health of the Cook Islands population.