We live in a fast-paced world where self-care is glorified and commodified. But there isn’t one journey to wellbeing that works for everyone. Noongar people focus more on community care. So what are some different concepts and methods of achieving wellbeing according to Noongar Elders?

People take many different paths in their pursuit of mental health and wellbeing. Visiting friends and family, making a cup of tea, taking a bath, or popping on a face mask.

But sometimes what we should really be doing is slowing down, or “dabakarn koorliny”. In Noongar this roughly translates to 'moving along slowly or with purpose'.

First Nations people take a more holistic view on self-care that involves not just the self, but connection to country and community.

In this first episode of the podcast Noongar Wellbeing we talk to Kathy Pickett, a Yued Noongar Elder who is currently completing a doctorate on First Nations children and the foster care system.

She speaks about how First Nations people are disproportionately affected by factors that negatively influence mental health, and what she recommends - combining her knowledge of psychology and Noongar culture.

What we could call going back to Country, well they call that grounding now. It’s almost like Western ways of doing things are catching up.

LISTEN TO

What does self care and wellbeing mean to First Nations Elders?

SBS NITV Radio

01/07/202239:36

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Kathy's understanding of wellbeing incorporates physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual health. Source: Kathy Pickett

Noongar Wellbeing is hosted by Ballardong Whadjuk Noongar woman Brooke Collard. Produced by Lucy Torvaldsen at Envelope Audio.

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More episodes of Noongar Wellbeing

Koodah Cornwall on reigniting your inner fire

Professor Len Collard on the magic of Wangka or talking

Vivienne Hansen on Noongar Bush Tucker and medicine