Publications

Residents across the Baffin Bay/Davis Strait (BBDS) region have experienced common challenges in relation to rapid development and changes in living conditions, and they continue to adapt to the legacy of colonization. However, there are still significant symptoms of social problems and mental vulnerability. The strong relation to nature and the importance of artistic creativity and cohesion remain central to the life of Inuit. These factors are of great importance for mental health and well-being.

The background of the study reported in this chapter was the growing number of chronically ill patients. The purpose was to explore patients’ perspectives on life with chronic illness and how it relates to healthcare practice. The research was conducted as an ethnographic field study. A conclusion of the study is that the disease-oriented healthcare system is not geared to deal with rehabilitation because of a narrow focus on disease and treatment, and the exclusion of patients’ knowledge. However, knowledge about patients’ everyday life and perspectives hold potentials for rehabilitative and health promotional professional interventions.