Aboriginal children and early years
More than half of the Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander population in South Australia, is made up of young people. This significant demographic presents an opportunity to improve social and emotional wellbeing outcomes and prevent negative experiences of low social and emotional wellbeing for future generations.
Aboriginal young people are known for their resilience, drawing strength from traditional protective practices that have been passed down through generations. These cultural foundations play a critical role in maintaining emotional and social wellbeing. However, we also recognise that ongoing challenges, including the impacts of historical trauma, marginalisation, and socio-economic factors, continue to affect the mental health of young people in our communities. It is essential that we build on these strengths to better support the mental health and overall wellbeing of our young people.
Preventive Health SA is committed to focusing on early intervention and prevention strategies by taking culturally informed approaches using research, data, and learnings from community consultations to support long term positive health impacts across the lifespan for our Aboriginal youth.
South Australia is home to some school based programs that can contribute to good social and emotional wellbeing and these programs provide opportunities and pathways for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander youth.
