Ashley Quinn, Teagan Miller, Philip Baiden, Esme Fuller-Thomson
Abstract
Objectives. To explore factors contributing to flourishing in the American Indian/Alaskan Native (AI/AN) and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (NH/PI) populations in the United States (U.S.).
Methods. The sample of 6,265 respondents who self-identified as AI/AN or NH/PI were drawn from the 2022 and 2023 Behavioral Risk Factor Surveillance System. Flourishing was analyzed as a binary variable comprised of several health factors: Absence of physical limitations, binge drinking and frequent stress, and the presence of life satisfaction, emotional and social support, and optimal self-reported mental and physical health.
Results. Three in ten Indigenous people in the U.S. are flourishing. Results revealed that likelihood of flourishing is significantly associated with adequate income to meet basic needs, never-smoking, physical activity and fewer chronic health conditions.
Conclusions. A large portion of Indigenous people in the U.S. are flourishing. Many of the factors associated with flourishing are modifiable circumstances that could be improved with greater financial security.
Policy Implications. These findings underscore the importance of addressing the physical, social, and economic determinants of health to enhance the well-being of Indigenous populations in the U.S.
