Indigenous approaches to wellbeing

Social and Emotional Wellbeing (SEWB)

a framework that includes all elements of being, and therefore wellbeing, for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples

Multidimensional

made up of different components

Holistic (in relation to SEWB)

an approach to wellbeing that considers the whole person, including their mental, physical, spiritual, and social needs

draw SEWB model

(refer to book/slides)

connection to body (SEWB)

connecting to the physical body and health in order to participate fully in all aspects of life

connection to mind and emotions (SEWB)

ability to effectively manage thoughts and feelings

connection to family and kinship (SEWB)

connection to the immediate and wider family group and community

connection to community (SEWB)

connection to wider social systems, providing individuals and families the ability to connect with and support each other

connection to culture (SEWB)

a strong sense of identity, values, tradition, and connection between the past, present, and future that drives behaviour and beliefs

connection to Country (SEWB)

traditional lands of a particular language or cultural group including both geographical boundaries and the spiritual, emotional and intellectual connections to and within it

connection to spirituality and ancestors (SEWB)

spirituality refers to a concept that connects all things, and shapes beliefs, values and behaviour. It guides knowledge systems, culture, and all that is life for Aboriginal peoples, including connections to ancestors, the past, the present and the future. Ancestors refer to a belief that a family and community’s ancestors are interconnected with Creation Spirits and Country and watch over, guide and protect families and communities in the physical and spiritual world

social determinants

The circumstances in which people grow, live, and work, and the systems put in place to deal with illness

historical determinants

The ongoing influence of events, policies, and trauma on groups of people

political determinants

Political policies that shape the process of distributing resources and power to individuals and communities, and create or reinforce social and health inequalities

determinants of wellbeing

factors that influence wellbeing on individual and community levels

cultural continuity

the passing down and active practice of cultural knowledge, traditions, and values from generation to generation

self-determination

the rights of all peoples to pursue freely their economic, social, and cultural development without outside interference