The health needs of Aboriginal mothers in Australian prisons are not being met, according to a new study released today. The joint study conducted a holistic investigation into the social, emotional and physical wellbeing of 77 Aboriginal mothers in prison in New South Wales and 84 Aboriginal mothers in prison in Western Australia. Chief Investigator and public health researcher at the University of Newcastle, Professor Elizabeth Sullivan , said Aboriginal mothers in prison showed significant resilience but have unmet health needs and experience high levels of psychological distress. “A historical context of child removal, loss of language and marginalisation has often contributed to incarceration. Despite the over-representation of Aboriginal women in Australian prisons, there is a lack of culturally informed patient-centred health programs,” Professor Sullivan said. “We need a more holistic approach to programs that can help improve health outcomes for Aboriginal women both in prison and post release.” […]
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