The Elders’ report into preventing Indigenous self-harm and youth suicide

Almost non-existent 30 years ago, the rate of youth suicide and self-harm in Indigenous communities across Australia is now the highest in the world. Urgent action is desperately needed to address this crisis. Current mainstream efforts by Government policy makers and health and social services are not working, nor are they empowering communities to implement their own solutions. Indigenous community leaders and Elders are calling for your support to help them heal their young people, by reconnecting them to their culture, and strengthening their sense of identity. The Culture Is Life campaign aims to give a platform for Indigenous Elders and community leaders to influence public awareness, policy-making and service provision around Indigenous suicide prevention. It aims to give voice to the Indigenous-held position that culture and connection to country are vital foundations for social and emotional wellbeing in Indigenous communities. One of the initial actions of the Culture Is Life campaign was the development of the Elders Report on Preventing Indigenous Self Harm and Youth Suicide. Culture Is Life representatives traveled across the country, gathering vital messages from senior Elders about the solutions needed to solve the youth suicide crisis. These voices form the heart of the campaign, which acts to press community concerns upon Government and service providers on the best ways forward for their communities.