Did you know that Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people are twice as likely to experience high levels of psychological distress compared to non-Indigenous Australians? This is why it’s important to understand the unique challenges faced by these communities when it comes to mental health in Aboriginal communities. If you or someone you care for is Aboriginal and in need of support, this guide will help you find the right resources.
What is “Aboriginal Social and Emotional Wellbeing”?
If you’re an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, mental health may mean something different to you. You may understand mental health as “social and emotional wellbeing.” This includes not only the mind but also a connection to family, community, and land. Healing often involves more than just medical treatment—it’s about reconnecting with culture and dealing with the impacts of past trauma.
Why Mental Health Services for Indigenous People Is Important
Aboriginal people often face mental health challenges linked to past traumas, cultural disconnection, and ongoing inequality. The effects of colonisation, loss of land, and broken cultural ties still affect their social and emotional well-being today. This is why it’s crucial to use Aboriginal mental health services that are designed with your culture and needs in mind.
Here are some key Indigenous mental health resources that can help.
1. WellMob
WellMob is an online hub that provides resources specifically for the social, emotional, and cultural well-being of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. It includes videos, podcasts, and websites that focus on Aboriginal mental health, physical health, and healing while respecting Indigenous cultures. Please note, some content includes images of Indigenous people who have passed away.
If you’re looking for content that specifically addresses Aboriginal healing through traditional cultural practices, WellMob may be the best fit for you. This platform provides culturally relevant resources that emphasise the connection to land, family, and community in the healing process.
You can visit WellMob to learn more.
2. Head to Health
Head to Health previously held the Keep Your Spirit Strong campaign to help Indigenous communities find mental health services for Indigenous people during the pandemic. It shared stories and tips from Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people about how they look after their social and emotional well-being. This initiative focuses on the strength that comes from community and culture. They recognise that Aboriginal mental health is about more than just the mind—it’s about the whole person.
If you’re seeking mental health support during times of crisis or looking for ongoing campaigns that promote emotional resilience within Indigenous communities, Head to Health can offer valuable guidance.
Find more current campaigns at Head to Health.
3. Beyond Blue
Beyond Blue is one of Australia’s leading mental health organisations. They have a special section dedicated to mental health services for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islanders, offering help for anxiety, depression, and suicidal thoughts. Their resources are culturally sensitive, and they share stories from Indigenous Australians who have sought support. These services can provide the kind of Aboriginal mental health first aid that many need in times of crisis.
For those needing support for specific mental health concerns like anxiety or depression, and who want access to culturally sensitive resources that offer direct crisis support, Beyond Blue is an excellent option.
Explore these resources on Beyond Blue.
4. NSW Health
If you’re caring for an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander person, NSW Health provides guidelines to help. When supporting someone, it’s important to understand the role of culture, family, and community in their wellbeing. Also, recognising the effects of past trauma and colonisation is essential.
When supporting an Aboriginal person, it is important to understand:
- the importance of acknowledging the resilience of Aboriginal people when they share their story
- the significance of culture, family, community, country, and spirituality in their journey
- that social and emotional well-being may be better understood than mental illness, so using these more familiar terms may be helpful
- the importance of including families, kinship, and extended clan groups
- the significant impact that stigma, discrimination, and trauma may have on their life.
NSW Health is particularly helpful if you are a caregiver or healthcare professional looking for practical guidelines on providing culturally appropriate care. It’s an excellent resource for understanding the broader social and emotional wellbeing needs of Aboriginal people, especially when you are navigating complex care environments.
You can check out the full guidelines on NSW Health.
A Call for Mental Health in Aboriginal Communities
It’s important to use Aboriginal mental health services that understand and respect the cultural needs of Indigenous people. Whether you’re seeking help for yourself or supporting someone else, these resources can make a big difference in providing effective mental health services for Indigenous communities.
Need Immediate Help?
If you or someone you know is in crisis, you can call these 24/7 services:
- Lifeline: 13 11 14
- Beyond Blue: 1300 22 4636
- 13YARN: 13 92 76 (a safe helpline for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people)
For a complete list of mental health support resources, click here. These services offer immediate and confidential support.
By using these resources, you can ensure that mental health in Aboriginal communities is approached in a way that respects their culture and meets their specific needs.
