Matthew Trindall Gomeroi Murri
Matthew Trindall, Gomeroi Murri with family connections to the Thungutti, Gandangarra and Bigambul people. Matthew is the Director Aboriginal Mental Health, Mental Health Branch at the NSW Ministry of Health. Previously held positions with Justice Health and Forensic Mental Health Network as the Director Aboriginal Strategy and Culture, Clinical Leader Aboriginal Mental Health, South Eastern Sydney Local Health District and rural mental health with Hunter New England Local Health District.
Matthew is a long-term advocate for system improvements, policy reform, and making Aboriginal mental health everyone’s business.
Abstract
Cultural determinants of Aboriginal Mental Health and Wellbeing
Aboriginal people are over represented in majority of the preventative health conditions experienced by Australians. Addressing these issues may require a complementary approach to service provision.
Aboriginal health is viewed in a holistic way, the concepts include not just physical health and wellbeing, but also includes the social, emotional and cultural wellbeing of individuals, families and communities.
Recognition of the cultural determinants of mental health for Aboriginal people improves awareness, protective factors, safety and provision of services in the mental health sector.
If we are going to improve outcomes and Close the Gap for Aboriginal people than addressing the cultural determinants will assist in the long term solution for communities accessing mental health services.
