Prof Pat Dudgeon, is a Bardi woman from the Kimberley, and the National Mental Health Commissioner. She is Australia’s first Indigenous psychologist. She says that: ‘Indigenous culture has for a long time had a holistic understanding of mental health’:
‘Indigenous culture has for a long time had a holistic understanding of mental health. Within this are concepts of the cultural importance of the connection between the mind and body as well as the land, ancestors and other spiritual connections… I am motivated to do the kind of work I do because I want to help my people. The Aboriginal people who grew up in great disadvantage and in racism. Something I have certainly experienced during my life. What I admire most in my family and all the communities is Aboriginal people’s great resilience and generosity of spirit, not only to their own people but to everyone. Despite a terrible history that is still very close for Australia’s Indigenous people, this spirit of generosity and resilience are something to celebrate and acknowledge.’
