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Prevention of FASD, including parent-child attachment from an Aboriginal culturally appropriate framework

Joanna Hamilton

Jo is a Ngarluma and Jaru woman.  She has Graduate Diploma in Indigenous Health Promotion from University of Sydney.  Jo has worked for Derbarl Yerrigan Health Service, Child and Adolescent Health Service - Aboriginal Health; and East Metropolitan Health Service with the Aboriginal Health Strategy.  Jo has worked with SJG Social Outreach contributing to and co-facilitating the Connected Parenting training.

Contact details: moomdaura@gmail.com

About this resource

The module aims to promote an understanding of the diversity of Aboriginal culture, the historical content and life stressors that may impact a patient’s ability to draw on their own strengths and those of their families to make good health choices and be present for their children.

A key component of the education module development was working with and consulting Aboriginal professionals, to ensure the content and information included was culturally appropriate and meaningful.   The consultation highlighted the importance of GPs taking a conversational approach, and time to engage with patients.  The consultation emphasised the need to develop a respectful, welcoming environment where patients feel comfortable to come back, thereby facilitating the opportunity to explore alcohol and drug use and to develop a realistic plan for change with patients where necessary. The consultation undertaken endorsed ‘The Yarning Circle’ as a culturally appropriate communication model that promotes a practical, holistic approach in caring for Aboriginal people experiencing AOD issues.

The education module emphasises that GPs do not have to have all the answers, and provides referral information to appropriate services, to support GPs in this challenging work.

The Mental Health Commission (MHC), Strong Spirit Strong Mind (use Google Chrome to access all links) resources are produced in WA and provide useful information in an accessible format.  Below are just a few examples of the resources available:

Other relevant resources can be found at the FASD Hub, the Yarning about Alcohol and Pregnancy (PDF) may be a particularly useful resource.

WA Primary Health AlliancePrimary Health Network: Perth North, Perth South, Country WA

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