Addressing Aboriginal mental health issues on the Tiwi Islands
Date
2007
Authors
Norris, Glenn
Parker, Robert
Beaver, Carol M.
Van Konkelenberg, Jude Nicholas
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Australasian Psychiatry, 2007; 15 (4):310-314
Statement of Responsibility
Glenn Norris, Robert Parker, Carol Beaver and Jude van Konkelenberg
Conference Name
Abstract
Objective: This paper provides an overview of the services developed in response to the unique mental health needs of a remote Aboriginal community. We describe an evolving service on the Tiwi Islands in the Northern Territory and the challenges that need to be addressed if the community is to continue to take a leading role in dealing with mental health issues.
Conclusions: The Tiwi Mental Health Service demonstrates that community members are able to identify needs and respond accordingly if they are provided with the relevant information and supported in their decision-making process. The establishment of social governance mechanisms and the long-term commitment by a change agent to facilitate the empowerment process are important keys to success. The main challenge in establishing services in rural Aboriginal communities is to identify and support community strengths, including leaders and cultural practices.
School/Discipline
School of History and Politics
Dissertation Note
Provenance
Description
Copyright © 2007 The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Psychiatrists