A diverse group of Indigenous psychologists from around the world gathered at the University of Western Australia, fostering international collaboration to address pressing mental health and climate issues.
Bridging Continents and Cultures
Professor Pat Dudgeon, Australia’s first Indigenous psychologist and Chief Investigator of Transforming Indigenous Mental Health and Wellbeing, welcomed scholars from Canada, the US, and New Zealand. The attendees arrived in Boorloo from Ngambri and Ngunnawal Country, courtesy of the Winhangadurinya Project led by Dr. Stewart Sutherland from the Australian National University (ANU).
Notable Attendees
- Associate Professor Jeffrey Ansloos: Fisher River Cree Nation, Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Studies in Health, Suicide Studies & Environmental Justice at the University of Toronto.
- Associate Professor Waikaremoana Waitoki: Te Pua Wānanga ki te Ao Faculty of Māori and Indigenous Studies, affiliated with Ngāti Hako and Ngāti Māhanga iwi.
- Dr. Mark Standing Eagle Baez: Mohawk and Pawnee descent, President-elect of the Society of Indian Psychologists, Associate Professor at Bemidji State University.
- Dr. Hukarere Valentine: Senior Māori Clinical Psychologist, co-director of the Centre for Indigenous Psychologies at Massey University.
- Dr. Stewart Sutherland: Wiradjuri man with over 20 years’ experience in Indigenous health from ANU.
Climate Change and Mental Health: A Pressing Issue
On October 25, at the WA Museum Boola Bardip, Dr. Valentine, Dr. Baez, A/Prof Waitoki, and A/Prof Ansloos delivered a compelling public lecture titled ‘Climate Change and Global Indigenous Psychology.’ They delved into how climate change profoundly impacts mental health, especially for First Nations peoples whose deep connections to the land are integral to their social and emotional wellbeing.
Lecture Highlights
- Impact of Climate Change: Discussed the direct and indirect effects on Indigenous mental health.
- Indigenous Mindfulness: Explored how traditional practices can aid in coping with environmental stressors.
- Collaborative Solutions: Emphasized the need for global Indigenous cooperation to address these challenges.
Networking and Knowledge Sharing in Boorloo
During their stay in Boorloo, the scholars visited the Wungening Aboriginal Corporation and the Aboriginal Health Council of Western Australia (AHCWA). These visits provided a platform for exchanging Indigenous knowledge and practices, enriching both local and international perspectives.
The Robin Winkler Lecture: A Platform for Change
On October 28, A/Prof Ansloos and Dr. Baez took center stage at the 2024 Robin Winkler Lecture at UWA, presented by the School of Psychological Science. The lecture, themed ‘Mental Health is Political: Global Indigenous Struggles for Racial Justice and Collective Healing,’ was a powerful discourse on the intersection of mental health and political activism within Indigenous communities.
Key Takeaways
- Mental Health as a Political Issue: Highlighted how systemic injustices impact mental wellbeing.
- Collective Healing: Discussed strategies for community-based mental health initiatives.
- Racial Justice: Explored the role of Indigenous activism in promoting mental health.
Honoring Traditions: Welcome to Country Ceremony
The Robin Winkler Lecture was preceded by a traditional smoking ceremony at Bilya Marlee, serving as a Welcome to Country for the visiting academics. Micheal Spratt, a Noongar Yamatji man, played the didgeridoo, while Noongar elders Aunty Roma Winmar and Aunty Tjalaminu Mia led the ceremony. This gesture underscored the importance of cultural respect and recognition in fostering meaningful collaborations.
Building a Collaborative Future
The international cohort of Indigenous scholars and practitioners committed to ongoing collaboration. Plans include joint research papers, shared research grants, and continuous exchange of Indigenous knowledges on ways of being and doing. In their joint statement, the group expressed excitement about future reunions on Whadjuk Noongar boodjar, emphasizing the strength found in their shared heritage and collective efforts.
Future Initiatives
- Collaborative Research: Partnering on studies addressing Indigenous mental health and environmental justice.
- Grant Applications: Jointly applying for research funding to support their initiatives.
- Knowledge Exchange Programs: Facilitating regular meetings to share insights and strategies.
Voices of Courage and Resilience
A/Prof Ansloos encapsulated the spirit of the gathering with his statement, “We need to look to the political courage of Indigenous peoples around the world.” His words reflect the resilience and determination driving these scholars to effect positive change within their communities and beyond.
Addressing Mental Health through Indigenous Perspectives
Professor Dudgeon highlighted the significance of Indigenous research methods in understanding and addressing real-world issues. “Indigenous research methods have shown community engagement and cultural empowerment is vital in understanding and addressing real-world issues,” she stated. This approach ensures that mental health initiatives are culturally relevant and effective, honoring the unique experiences of Indigenous populations.
The Role of Education and Training
Over the past three years, the ASA and APS have collaborated to develop CBTi training programs, enhancing the capacity of psychologists to deliver effective cognitive behavioural therapy for insomnia. The new registry is a significant step forward, listing psychologists who have completed CBTi training and are equipped to support patients through evidence-based practices.
Enhancing Access to Mental Health Services
- CBTi Provider Registry: An online directory to streamline referrals for insomnia treatment.
- Training Programs: Interactive modules to certify clinicians in CBTi.
- Telehealth Options: Expanding access to remote and rural areas.
This initiative not only increases the availability of CBTi but also aligns with the broader goal of reducing dependency on sleeping pills, promoting healthier treatment alternatives for insomnia.
