New report on Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people’s perspectives on suicide prevention support

A new community report has been released outlining Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people’s perspectives on suicide prevention.

The report, Yarn Up Listen Up shares findings from consultations with 24 Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people aged 18-27 years. The consultations asked a range of questions including how Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people stay mentally and spiritually strong, and their specific concerns or perspectives on support available.

The consultations were led by Culture is Life (an Aboriginal-led not-for-profit organisation focused on young people) in partnership with the Centre of Best Practice in Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Suicide Prevention (CBPATSISP) and were facilitated by a researcher via online consultation sessions.

Outcomes from the consultations showed five key themes that were important to young people including:

1. The importance of connection to culture, Country and family to keep Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people mentally and spiritually strong.
2. A lack of trust, understanding and support is a barrier to young people accessing mainstream mental health services.
3. Young people are more willing to access Aboriginal and/or Torres Strait Islander support services compared to mainstream services.
4. Access to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health services needs to be affordable, appropriate and responsive.
5. Health care needs to focus on prevention and early intervention, including promoting positive mental health practices throughout all stages of life.

As a result of the consultations, researchers suggest future consultations to explore suicidal thoughts and behaviours specifically of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander young people.