Indigenous women’s wellness: what makes us stronger?

The term “Social and Emotional Wellbeing” (SEWB) was developed to address Indigenous holistic connections to state of wellbeing and opposes constructs around “mental health” such as a diagnosis, disease or illness. This study’s aim was to explore what Indigenous Women’s Wellbeing is broadly and what Social and Emotional Wellbeing is, through Indigenous perceptions, beliefs and knowledge of Indigenous Women’s Wellbeing experiences within North Brisbane. Data was derived from semi-structured focus group incorporating Indigenous specific Yarning, where Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander women who have experienced or were at risk of developing Social and Emotional Wellness problems came together. The women identified many factors underpinning Wellbeing and Social and Emotional Wellness and what it means for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Women. The major themes centred around wellness and health, autonomy, Indigenous women being heard, historical factors, support and Indigenous women’s group development and continuation.