Search

The article discusses ethical research processes for analyzing indigenous people in Australia. It mentions proposed guiding principles for developing an effective relationship with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander participants during research. It also notes its focus on the obligation of getting correct information on cultural appropriateness, the impact of colonisation on researchers and how discussions related to the study is examined.

In essence, the concept of mental health for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people is very broad. The capacity to achieve good mental wellbeing rests largely with the individual's relationship with family and community and connection to land, as well as spiritual and physical wellness (Australia. Department of Health and Ageing 2004). Recent research into the social and emotional wellbeing of Aboriginal students from eight universities, revealed a large number of them had a diagnosed mental health issue. This paper with explore the students' mental health issues and their relationship to the university experience. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article will report on the recommendations from a study that investigated what Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander students said affected their social and emotional wellbeing. The study interviewed students from seven different universities and utilised thematic analysis to determine what the factors where. As a result, a number of strategies became apparent that could be implemented to optimise Aboriginal Torres Strait Islander students' social and emotional wellbeing whilst at university, and not only make the experience more positive but also facilitate their progression and completion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aim: To explore the care experiences of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Australians diagnosed with cirrhosis with a focus on support needed. Background: Cirrhosis disproportionately affects Indigenous Australians, and liver diseases contribute to the mortality gap between Indigenous and other Australian adults. Design: A qualitative study. Methods: Using yarning methods, Indigenous patients (n = 13) and support persons (n = 3) were interviewed by an Aboriginal researcher during April‐July, 2020. Thematic analysis was used to identify common themes using an inductive approach. Results: Six themes emerged. (1) Experience of diagnosis. This theme included stories of delays in the system, self‐awareness of signs and symptoms and relief of being diagnosed. (2) 'Shame, shame, shame'. Experiences of prejudices and discrimination from health professionals, the lack of understanding of cirrhosis among health professionals, and stories about alcohol cessation and counselling around alcohol cessation. (3) Health literacy. Participants' understanding of cirrhosis was variable. While the importance of knowledge was recognised, 'what works for someone might not work for others'. Several patients partnered with their support persons and clinicians to bridge the health literacy gap. (4) Sources of support included family and friends, transport facilities, health professionals and peers. (5) Positive and negative aspects of communication and patient consultation were discussed. (6) Psychosocial counselling to 'look after the caring side'. The need for more mental health care services was raised. Conclusion: Barriers related to poor health literacy, stigma and lack of practical and emotional support, and issues with communication and patient consultation, may lead to inequitable access to cirrhosis care and treatment for Indigenous Australians. Relevance to clinical practice: Gaining knowledge of the experiences of Indigenous Australians with cirrhosis is important for providing patient‐centred and culturally appropriate care. Liver specialist nurses have an important role in bridging the health literacy gap and in supporting Indigenous patients and families. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]