For too long, Aboriginal youth have been considered a ‘problem’ to be solved, particularly regarding poor mental health statistics. Despite focused research, government targets and national campaigns, the inequity in wellbeing only continues to widen. Rather than following the ‘same old same old’ approach that has been repackaged time and again, it’s time for the health and government sectors to genuinely listen to calls for Aboriginal approaches to the issues that challenge us. This presentation demonstrates research that takes the lead from the Aboriginal community’s desire to shift away from deficit-based approaches of viewing intergenerational trauma, towards an approach to wellbeing that focuses on the strengths and capabilities of First Nations people.
Through yarning research, connection and belonging are explored as culturally determined approaches to improving and sustaining social and emotional wellbeing in young Aboriginal people in Naarm (Melbourne). By vulnerably acknowledging experiences of colonisation that manifest as disconnection from culture, identity, Country and community, young people have developed both instinctual and deliberate strategies to promote a sense of connection and belonging. Aboriginal youth speak of ‘walking in two worlds’ and navigating the complex environment of locating their identities in colonial spaces that deny and challenge them. Yet still they are able to find ways to connect with each other and reimagine what present-day Aboriginal culture is. There is great potential to learn from their strategies and views on building belonging and connection. By reorienting towards strengths, holistic understandings of wellbeing, truth-telling and the importance of connecting and caring for others and the world around us, young First Nations people are often on the forefront of change and progress. This study illustrates the value of listening to Aboriginal youth and learning from their experiences.