Stigma in Oceania: Unique Perspectives from Pacific Cultures

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Are you curious about the unique cultural landscapes of mental health? Join us as we delve into "Stigma in Oceania: Unique Perspectives from Pacific Cultures." Understanding the nuances of Pacific mental health stigma reduction is crucial for fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment. What unique challenges and strengths exist within these communities, and how can we work together to break down barriers? Let's explore this vital topic together...

Stigma in Oceania: Unique Perspectives from Pacific Cultures | Mind Care Guide

Mental health stigma is a significant barrier to care globally, but its manifestations and impacts are uniquely shaped by the cultural landscapes in which it occurs. In Oceania, particularly across the diverse islands of the Pacific, the understanding and perception of mental illness are deeply intertwined with traditional beliefs, community structures, and historical experiences. Addressing mental health challenges in this region necessitates a profound understanding of these local contexts and the specific forms of stigma that arise within them. Efforts towards Pacific mental health stigma reduction must be culturally grounded to be effective.

The reluctance to seek help for mental health issues in Pacific island nations is often rooted in fear of judgment, shame brought upon the family, or the belief that mental distress is a personal failing or caused by spiritual factors. This pervasive stigma creates a cycle of silence and suffering, where individuals may hide their struggles, leading to delayed treatment and worsening conditions. Understanding these intricate layers of stigma is the first step in building more supportive and accessible mental healthcare systems across Oceania.

The Cultural Context of Mental Illness in Oceania

Across the vast expanse of the Pacific, countless distinct cultures possess unique worldviews regarding health, illness, and the mind-body connection. Traditional Pacific cultures often view well-being holistically, encompassing physical, spiritual, and communal harmony. Mental distress may not be categorized as a distinct "illness" in the Western sense but could be interpreted through lenses of spiritual imbalance, ancestral displeasure, or disruptions in social relationships. This differing conceptualization can contribute to stigma, as conditions recognized as mental illnesses in Western medicine might be misunderstood or attributed to non-medical causes within traditional frameworks.

In many Pacific societies, the emphasis on collective identity and community harmony means that individual struggles can be perceived as a threat to the group's stability or reputation. Shame and embarrassment are powerful deterrents to disclosure. For instance, in some cultures, conditions like depression or anxiety might be viewed as weakness or a lack of resilience, rather than treatable health conditions. This cultural framing significantly impacts how individuals perceive their own experiences and whether they feel comfortable discussing them, creating significant obstacles for effective Pacific mental health stigma reduction initiatives.

Prevalence of Mental Health Issues Across Pacific Nations

While specific, comprehensive data across all Pacific Island nations remains challenging to collect and standardize, existing studies and reports indicate a significant burden of mental health conditions. For example, data from countries like Fiji, Samoa, and Tonga suggest rising rates of depression and anxiety, particularly among young people facing rapid social change and economic pressures. Substance abuse, including alcohol and kava misuse, is also a prevalent issue that is often linked to underlying mental health challenges but is frequently addressed solely as a behavioral problem, further obscuring the mental health component and perpetuating stigma.

Suicide rates are also a grave concern in some Pacific Island nations, notably among youth. While complex, these tragedies are often linked to factors such as social isolation, cultural expectations, trauma (including historical trauma and trauma from natural disasters), and limited access to mental health support. The lack of open discussion about mental health issues, fueled by pervasive stigma, prevents individuals from seeking help during crises, underscoring the urgent need for targeted strategies aimed at Pacific mental health stigma reduction and improved access to culturally appropriate care.

Unique Cultural Factors Influencing Stigma in Oceania

The tapestry of Pacific cultures is rich and varied, and so too are the specific factors that contribute to mental health stigma. Beyond general concepts of shame and collectivism, unique cultural beliefs, historical experiences, and social structures play a critical role in shaping perceptions and responses to mental illness. Understanding these specific influences is crucial for developing effective interventions.

Traditional Beliefs and Mental Wellbeing in Pacific Communities

Traditional belief systems across Oceania often incorporate spiritual or supernatural explanations for illness, including conditions that might be identified as mental health disorders in Western medicine. Beliefs in sorcery, curses, or the influence of spirits are not uncommon and can lead to mental distress being viewed as a spiritual affliction rather than a medical one. This can result in individuals seeking help from traditional healers or spiritual leaders instead of, or in addition to, Western medical practitioners, which can delay appropriate clinical treatment.

Furthermore, some traditional perspectives may not have distinct categories for mental health conditions as understood in biomedical models. Distress might be described using terms related to emotional states or physical symptoms rather than psychological diagnoses. While traditional healing practices offer culturally relevant support and comfort for many, the lack of recognition of mental illness as a health condition requiring specific treatment within some traditional frameworks can inadvertently reinforce stigma and hinder access to clinical mental healthcare.

Impact of Colonialism on Mental Health Perceptions

The colonial history of the Pacific Islands has had a profound and complex impact on mental health and the perception of illness. Colonial powers often imposed Western systems of governance, education, and healthcare, which sometimes disregarded or pathologized traditional healing practices and belief systems. The introduction of new social structures, economic systems, and religions disrupted traditional ways of life, contributing to social dislocation, loss of cultural identity, and intergenerational trauma, all of which are significant risk factors for mental health issues.

Moreover, colonial administrations often established Western psychiatric institutions that were sometimes perceived negatively or were geographically inaccessible to many communities. The imposition of foreign concepts of mental illness and treatment, without adequate cultural adaptation, may have further alienated communities and contributed to mistrust of formal mental healthcare systems. This historical legacy continues to influence contemporary attitudes towards mental health and poses a challenge for effective Pacific mental health stigma reduction efforts.

Family and Community Dynamics: Their Role in Stigma

In Pacific cultures, the family and community are central to identity and support. However, this strong collective orientation can also be a source of significant pressure and contribute to stigma. The desire to protect the family's reputation ("mana" or similar concepts across cultures) can lead to mental health issues being hidden or denied within the family unit. Shame associated with mental illness is often felt not just by the individual but by their entire family.

This can manifest as families discouraging individuals from seeking help outside the family, fearing gossip or judgment from the wider community. While families are often the first line of support, the lack of understanding about mental illness or the internalization of societal stigma can also lead to rejection or isolation of the affected individual. Addressing stigma within these crucial family and community networks is paramount for creating environments where individuals feel safe to disclose their struggles and seek support, which is essential for successful Pacific mental health stigma reduction.

Specific Examples of Stigma Across Different Pacific Cultures

Examining specific case studies from different Pacific nations reveals how broader cultural themes of stigma manifest in unique ways, shaped by distinct local histories, traditions, and social structures. These examples highlight the diversity within Oceania and the need for tailored approaches to address mental health stigma effectively.

Stigma in Fiji: A Case Study

Fiji, a multicultural island nation in Melanesia, faces significant challenges related to mental health stigma. Reports indicate that mental illness is often misunderstood or attributed to spiritual causes, leading to fear and avoidance. A study conducted in Fiji found that a significant percentage of people held negative attitudes towards individuals with mental illness, perceiving them as dangerous or unpredictable, which severely hinders their social integration and access to care.

The cultural emphasis on resilience and strength in Fijian society can also contribute to individuals feeling pressure to conceal their struggles with mental health. Admitting vulnerability might be seen as a sign of weakness. This societal expectation, combined with limited mental health literacy, means that many Fijians suffer in silence, further entrenching stigma and making it difficult to implement widespread Pacific mental health stigma reduction initiatives.

Traditional Healing Practices and Mental Health Support

In Fiji, traditional healing practices, often involving vuniwai (traditional healers), remain an important source of support for many, particularly in rural areas. These healers often address illness holistically, considering physical, spiritual, and social factors. While vuniwai can provide valuable comfort and cultural validation, their understanding of conditions like severe depression or psychosis may differ significantly from biomedical models, sometimes leading to treatments that are not evidence-based for these conditions.

The co-existence of traditional and Western healing systems presents both opportunities and challenges for addressing mental health stigma. Integrating traditional healers into mental health awareness campaigns and encouraging collaboration with clinical services could help bridge the gap between different understandings of illness and promote help-seeking behaviour. However, care must be taken to ensure individuals also receive appropriate clinical care when needed, navigating the complexities of both systems to achieve effective Pacific mental health stigma reduction.

The "Kana Vata" (Eating Together) Culture and its Impact on Mental Health Discussions

The Fijian concept of kana vata, meaning "eating together," symbolizes the strong communal bonds and shared life within families and communities. Mealtimes and communal gatherings are central to social interaction and support. While this fosters strong relationships, it can also create environments where individuals feel immense pressure to present a facade of well-being and happiness, maintaining social harmony by not burdening others with personal struggles.

This cultural emphasis on collective presentation can make it difficult for individuals to openly discuss feelings of depression, anxiety, or other mental health challenges, particularly if these are perceived as disruptive or negative. The fear of being seen as different or problematic within the close-knit community can prevent individuals from reaching out for help. Strategies for Pacific mental health stigma reduction in Fiji must acknowledge and work within these powerful social dynamics, perhaps by creating safe spaces for sharing within or alongside traditional communal structures.

Stigma in Samoa: A Case Study

Samoa, located in Polynesia, also experiences significant mental health challenges compounded by cultural stigma. Mental illness is often viewed through a lens of shame and secrecy, particularly within the strong family structure ( aiga). The fear of bringing dishonor upon the aiga is a powerful deterrent to discussing mental health issues or seeking external help.

Reports indicate that young people in Samoa face particular pressure to conform to cultural expectations, and struggles with mental health can be interpreted as a failure to uphold the Fa'a Samoa (The Samoan Way). This cultural pressure, combined with limited mental health literacy and resources, contributes to high rates of untreated mental health conditions and, tragically, significant concerns around youth suicide rates in previous years, highlighting the critical need for urgent Pacific mental health stigma reduction efforts.

The Influence of Religion on Mental Health Attitudes

Christianity plays a central role in Samoan life, with churches serving as vital community hubs. Religious beliefs can profoundly influence attitudes towards mental health. In some instances, mental distress may be attributed to sin, lack of faith, or spiritual possession, leading to prayer or spiritual intervention being sought instead of clinical treatment.

While churches and religious leaders can provide immense pastoral care and support, the focus on spiritual explanations can sometimes inadvertently reinforce stigma by framing mental illness as a moral failing rather than a health issue. Engaging religious leaders in mental health education and awareness campaigns is crucial for disseminating accurate information and promoting help-seeking behaviours within the community, making them key partners in Pacific mental health stigma reduction.

"Fa'a Samoa" (The Samoan Way) and the Pressure to Maintain Appearances

Fa'a Samoa, or "The Samoan Way," is the core of Samoan identity, encompassing cultural values, customs, and social structures. It emphasizes respect for elders, communal responsibility, and maintaining harmony. While providing a strong social fabric, Fa'a Samoa can also create significant pressure on individuals to conform and present a strong, capable exterior, particularly for those in positions of responsibility.

This cultural expectation of strength and stoicism can make it extremely difficult for Samoans to admit vulnerability or openly discuss emotional or psychological struggles. The fear of being perceived as weak or failing to uphold the values of Fa'a Samoa contributes significantly to the silence surrounding mental health issues. Effective Pacific mental health stigma reduction in Samoa must navigate these deep-seated cultural norms and create safe spaces for authentic expression and vulnerability.

Stigma in Tonga: A Case Study

Tonga, another Polynesian kingdom, shares many cultural values with Samoa, including strong family ties and the importance of respect ( faka'apa'apa). Mental health stigma is prevalent, often leading to secrecy and delayed help-seeking. Anecdotal evidence suggests that discussing mental health issues is often seen as taboo, particularly for men, who may feel pressure to embody traditional ideals of strength and stoicism.

The close-knit nature of Tongan society means that gossip and judgment can be powerful forces, discouraging individuals from seeking help for fear of their struggles becoming public knowledge and impacting their family's standing. This social pressure, combined with limited mental health literacy and resources, contributes to a significant treatment gap for mental health conditions in Tonga, highlighting the urgent need for Pacific mental health stigma reduction strategies.

The Role of Community Leaders in Addressing Mental Health

In Tongan society, community leaders, including traditional chiefs ( nōpele and matāpule) and church ministers, hold significant influence and respect. Their attitudes and understanding of mental health can profoundly impact community perceptions and help-seeking behaviours. If leaders hold stigmatizing views or lack knowledge about mental illness, it reinforces community silence and inhibits progress.

Conversely, engaging these respected figures in mental health awareness initiatives can be a powerful tool for Pacific mental health stigma reduction. When leaders speak openly about mental health, share accurate information, and encourage compassion, it can help shift community attitudes and create a more supportive environment for those struggling. Their endorsement can lend legitimacy to mental health services and reduce the fear of judgment associated with seeking professional help.

"Faka'apa'apa" (Respect) and the Difficulty in Expressing Vulnerability

Faka'apa'apa, the Tongan value of respect, is fundamental to social interactions and hierarchy. It dictates appropriate behaviour towards elders, those of higher rank, and within specific relationships. While fostering social cohesion, faka'apa'apa can also create barriers to open communication, particularly regarding personal difficulties or vulnerability.

Expressing emotional distress or admitting to struggling with mental health can be perceived as a lack of respect for one's family or community, or as a failure to uphold one's responsibilities. The pressure to maintain a respectful and composed demeanor can make it difficult for individuals to share their inner struggles, even with close family members. Overcoming this cultural reticence is essential for effective Pacific mental health stigma reduction in Tonga, requiring approaches that acknowledge and gently challenge the aspects of faka'apa'apa that impede help-seeking.

The Impact of Stigma on Mental Health Outcomes in Oceania

The pervasive nature of mental health stigma across Oceania has tangible and detrimental consequences for individuals, families, and communities. It creates significant barriers at multiple levels, leading to poorer mental health outcomes compared to regions with lower stigma levels and better access to care. Addressing these impacts is central to improving the overall well-being of Pacific populations.

Barriers to Accessing Mental Healthcare Services

One of the most direct consequences of stigma is the creation of significant barriers to accessing formal mental healthcare services. Fear of being labeled or ostracized prevents individuals from seeking help from doctors, counselors, or mental health professionals, even when services are available. This is compounded by the fact that mental health services in many Pacific nations are already limited, underfunded, and often concentrated in urban centers, making them geographically inaccessible for many in rural or outer island communities.

Furthermore, when services are available, they may not be culturally appropriate or delivered by practitioners who understand the local context and belief systems. This lack of cultural sensitivity can lead to misunderstandings and further alienation of individuals seeking help. The combination of internal shame and external judgment, alongside practical access issues, means that only a fraction of those needing mental health support in the Pacific actually receive it. Effective Pacific mental health stigma reduction is crucial to increase uptake of available services.

Increased Isolation and Social Exclusion

Mental health stigma often leads to increased isolation and social exclusion for individuals experiencing mental health challenges. Fear of judgment can cause individuals to withdraw from social activities, community events, and even family interactions. They may internalize the negative stereotypes associated with mental illness, leading to feelings of worthlessness and shame.

This isolation deprives individuals of crucial social support networks that are particularly vital in community-oriented Pacific cultures. Being ostracized or feeling unable to participate fully in community life exacerbates feelings of loneliness, depression, and anxiety. Combating stigma is not just about accessing clinical care; it is fundamentally about ensuring that individuals with mental health conditions remain valued and included members of their communities, which is a core goal of Pacific mental health stigma reduction efforts.

Delayed Treatment and Worsened Mental Health Conditions

The reluctance to seek help due to stigma inevitably leads to significant delays in receiving treatment. Mental health conditions, like physical health conditions, often worsen without timely intervention. What might start as mild anxiety or depression can escalate into more severe and debilitating conditions if left unaddressed.

Delayed treatment not only makes recovery more challenging but can also lead to more significant impacts on an individual's life, affecting their ability to work, maintain relationships, and function day-to-day. In severe cases, delayed treatment can contribute to crises, including self-harm or suicide. The cycle of shame, silence, and delayed care fueled by stigma has devastating consequences, underscoring the urgency of implementing effective strategies for Pacific mental health stigma reduction to ensure people get help when they need it most.

Strategies for Pacific Mental Health Stigma Reduction

Addressing mental health stigma in Oceania requires multifaceted strategies that are deeply rooted in cultural understanding and community engagement. Generic approaches developed in Western contexts are unlikely to be effective without significant adaptation. Successful initiatives focus on building trust, increasing literacy, and empowering communities to talk openly about mental well-being.

Culturally Sensitive Mental Health Awareness Campaigns

Developing mental health awareness campaigns that are culturally sensitive and resonate with Pacific values is a critical strategy. These campaigns should use language, imagery, and communication channels that are familiar and trusted within communities, such as local radio, community meetings, and church gatherings. Messages should be framed in ways that destigmatize mental health issues, perhaps by linking them to broader concepts of well-being, resilience, or community health, rather than solely focusing on clinical diagnoses which may be poorly understood.

Campaigns should aim to increase mental health literacy, providing accurate information about common conditions, their symptoms, and the fact that they are treatable. Crucially, they must challenge negative stereotypes directly but empathetically. Sharing stories of hope and recovery, perhaps through respected community members or those with lived experience (when appropriate and safe), can be particularly powerful in demonstrating that mental health challenges are manageable and not a source of shame. These campaigns are fundamental to effective Pacific mental health stigma reduction.

Engaging Community Leaders and Traditional Healers

As highlighted in the case studies, community leaders, including chiefs, elders, women's groups, and church ministers, hold significant influence in Pacific societies. Engaging these leaders as champions for mental health is a vital strategy. Providing them with education and resources about mental health can empower them to speak openly about the issue within their communities and endorse help-seeking behaviour.

Similarly, collaborating with traditional healers ( vuniwai, taulasea, etc.) is essential. Rather than viewing them as obstacles, they can be valuable partners in Pacific mental health stigma reduction. Training traditional healers to recognize signs of severe mental illness and facilitating referral pathways to clinical services, while respecting their own practices, can help bridge the gap between traditional and Western care systems and ensure individuals receive the most appropriate support.

Integrating Mental Health Education into Schools and Communities

Introducing mental health education into school curricula from an early age can help normalize discussions about emotions and mental well-being for future generations. Teaching young people about mental health challenges, coping strategies, and the importance of seeking help can build resilience and reduce internalized stigma before it takes deep root.

Beyond schools, community-based mental health education programs, perhaps delivered through local health centers, community groups, or churches, can reach adults and families. These programs can provide practical information, facilitate open discussions, and connect individuals with local support resources. Making mental health a topic of everyday conversation within communities is a powerful way to chip away at stigma and foster an environment conducive to Pacific mental health stigma reduction.

Promoting Pacific Mental Health: Building Resilience and Support

Beyond actively reducing stigma, promoting positive mental health involves building resilience within individuals and strengthening the support systems around them. This proactive approach focuses on enhancing protective factors that contribute to well-being and creating environments where individuals can thrive despite challenges.

Strengthening Family and Community Support Networks

Given the centrality of family and community in Pacific cultures, strengthening these existing support networks is paramount. Initiatives could focus on educating families about mental health, teaching them how to support loved ones experiencing distress, and encouraging open communication within the family unit. Programs that promote positive parenting practices and healthy family dynamics can also contribute to a supportive environment.

Community-based initiatives that foster social cohesion, peer support groups, and safe spaces for sharing experiences can also help individuals feel less alone in their struggles. Leveraging existing community structures, such as women's groups, youth groups, or church fellowships, to facilitate discussions and provide mutual support can be highly effective. Strengthening these networks is a fundamental component of promoting Pacific mental health and building resilience against stigma.

Empowering Individuals with Lived Experience

Amplifying the voices of individuals who have lived experience with mental health challenges can be a powerful force for Pacific mental health stigma reduction. When individuals feel safe and supported enough to share their stories of struggle and recovery, it humanizes the experience of mental illness and challenges negative stereotypes.

Establishing peer support programs where individuals with lived experience can mentor and support others can provide invaluable empathy and guidance. Training individuals with lived experience as advocates can empower them to speak out against stigma, educate their communities, and contribute to the design of more responsive mental health services. Their lived experience is a source of unique insight and strength that can inspire hope and reduce the fear associated with mental illness.

Addressing Social Determinants of Mental Health

Mental health is profoundly influenced by social determinants such as poverty, unemployment, housing instability, discrimination, and access to education. In the Pacific, factors like the impacts of climate change (leading to displacement and insecurity), economic challenges, and the legacy of historical trauma significantly impact mental well-being.

Promoting positive mental health requires addressing these underlying social and economic factors. This involves advocating for policies that promote economic opportunity, improve access to education and housing, and address the unique vulnerabilities faced by Pacific island nations, such as climate resilience. While not directly reducing stigma, improving living conditions and reducing social inequities creates a more supportive environment where individuals are less likely to experience mental distress and more likely to access help when needed, indirectly supporting Pacific mental health stigma reduction efforts.

Future Directions for Mental Health in Oceania: Towards a Stigma-Free Future

Achieving a significant reduction in mental health stigma and improving mental well-being across Oceania is a long-term endeavor that requires sustained effort and investment. Future directions must focus on building robust systems, fostering collaboration, and ensuring that initiatives are culturally relevant and sustainable.

Research and Data Collection on Mental Health in Pacific Communities

A critical need exists for more comprehensive and culturally appropriate research and data collection on mental health prevalence, needs, and the impact of stigma in Pacific communities. Current data is often fragmented or based on Western diagnostic categories that may not fully capture the local experience of distress.

Investing in local research capacity and supporting studies that use culturally sensitive methodologies can provide a clearer picture of the specific mental health challenges faced by different Pacific populations and the unique ways stigma manifests. This data is essential for informing evidence-based policies, targeting interventions effectively, and measuring the impact of Pacific mental health stigma reduction efforts over time.

Collaboration Between Healthcare Providers and Cultural Leaders

Building stronger bridges between formal healthcare providers and cultural/traditional leaders is crucial. This involves creating platforms for dialogue, mutual learning, and collaborative program design. Healthcare providers need training in cultural competency to understand and respect traditional beliefs and practices, while cultural leaders can benefit from increased mental health literacy.

Collaborative models of care, where traditional healers and clinical professionals work together or have clear referral pathways, can provide more holistic and acceptable support for individuals. Joint awareness campaigns and community outreach initiatives led by both healthcare professionals and respected cultural figures can significantly enhance trust and reduce the fear associated with seeking formal help, accelerating Pacific mental health stigma reduction.

Sustainable Investments in Mental Health Services and Programs

Ultimately, achieving a stigma-free future requires sustainable investment in mental health services and programs across Oceania. This includes increasing the number of trained mental health professionals (including counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists), particularly in rural and remote areas. It also means investing in community-based mental health services that are accessible and culturally appropriate.

Sustainable funding models are needed to ensure that mental health initiatives are not dependent on short-term projects but are integrated into national health budgets and plans. This long-term commitment, coupled with ongoing efforts in Pacific mental health stigma reduction, education, and community engagement, offers the most promising path towards improving mental well-being and ensuring that all individuals in Oceania can access the support they need without fear or shame.

Final Reflection: Unmasking the Silence: Towards a Mentally Well Oceania

The pervasive stigma surrounding mental health in Oceania is not merely a historical artifact; it remains a critical barrier to accessing vital support and care today. The stories shared throughout this article highlight the devastating consequences of this silence, impacting individuals, families, and entire communities across the diverse Pacific islands. We must actively confront this reality to build a healthier future for the region.

The deeply ingrained cultural beliefs and traditional practices discussed underscore the complexity of addressing mental health stigma in Oceania. These perspectives, while often misunderstood in Western contexts, offer valuable insights into the unique challenges and potential solutions. Understanding these nuances is crucial for effective intervention. The strength of a community lies in its ability to support its most vulnerable members. This quote, while seemingly simple, encapsulates the core of what we must strive for in dismantling the stigma and fostering a culture of care and understanding.

You, the reader, now hold a deeper understanding of the multifaceted nature of mental health stigma in Oceania. Consider how you can contribute to the ongoing conversation and action. Challenge your own biases, actively listen to the voices of those affected, and support initiatives that prioritize culturally sensitive mental health care in the Pacific. Let us work together to create a future where seeking help for mental well-being is not a source of shame, but a path towards healing and empowerment for all.

Uncover Your Pacific Perspective: Understanding Stigma Differently

Thanks for exploring the unique perspectives on stigma within Oceania's diverse cultures! We hope this article sparked new insights into the complexities of mental health in the Pacific. Now, let's take action:

• Share your thoughts and experiences: What resonated most with you from the article? Have you encountered similar challenges or solutions within your community? Let's build a bridge of understanding in the comments below!
• Learn more about mental health resources in your region: Research local organizations offering support and initiatives dedicated to breaking down stigma within Pacific Island communities. This is a powerful step in building a more inclusive and supportive environment.
• Engage in respectful dialogue: Consider starting a conversation with family or friends about mental health and its importance, using the information you’ve learned as a springboard. Open communication is key.

What small act of understanding will you share today to help combat stigma in your Pacific community?