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A University of Queensland study is calling for changes to the way depression is treated in Indigenous communities in Australia.
UQ Rural Clinical School researcher Dr Bushra Nasir said the research has found that current treatments for Indigenous Australians are not working.
“Mainstream treatment models fail to incorporate the Indigenous understanding of mental health,” Dr Nasir said.
“Our results show that treating depression in Indigenous communities should extend beyond just clinical approaches.
“Retaining culture, spiritual beliefs, autonomy and a connection to Country will have a significant impact on improving Indigenous mental health and wellbeing.”
Dr Nasir said there’s also emerging evidence of the link between health and Indigenous connections to traditional grounds.