Learn about social and emotional wellbeing
We understand the importance of cultural safety within the mental health system, including social and emotional wellbeing, to achieve the holistic wellness for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Peoples.
Here are some resources to assist PIF members to understand the concepts of social and emotional wellbeing, and its importance to improve the quality of care provided to Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.

Dance of life
Professor Helen Milroy
Australia’s first Indigenous doctor and psychiatrist, professor Helen Milroy’s Dance of Life fact sheet explains that there are a number of dimensions, each with a number of layers that require consideration when developing a comprehensive approach to understanding Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health as well as providing assessment and treatment.
RANZCP Learnit modules and resources
Our RANZCP Learnit modules and resources support health professionals in improving knowledge and understanding of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander mental health care to achieve better outcomes. Login with your PIF User ID to access the modules below.
- Interviewing an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander patient - Engagement and communication with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples in a culturally appropriate and safe way.
- Developing a mental health management plan for an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander patient - Importance of collaboration in the development of a culturally appropriate and suitable management plan for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- Formulation of a case involving an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander patient - The important factors and information to consider when formulating a case involving an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander patient.
- Review a model of mental health service delivery in an Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander community - Understanding the barriers to accessing mental health service delivery along with strategies to improve access for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples.
- Cultural Intelligence throughout a Lifetime – RANZCP module containing the recording of a Symposium, providing narratives and perspectives of culturally safe mental health care from childhood to old age.
- First nations psychiatry with Professor Helen Milroy | RANZCP – RANZCP Psych Matters podcast covering the importance of cultural competence for understanding and engaging with patients of all backgrounds.
