The path to seeking substance help and healing from substance challenges can be particularly complex for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people.
First Nations peoples are disproportionately marginalised when it comes to accessing substance help. This can be due to limited culturally appropriate resources and Aboriginal or Torres Strait Islander-led services, and a fundamental lack of relevant programs and supports.
This can create significant barriers to building trust - something critical to engaging in recovery programs. When it comes to substance help for mob, peer support is vital in a successful recovery.
Understanding Traditional Approaches to Healing
Traditionally, First Nations communities approach substance help holistically, emphasising connection to land, community, and spirituality. Healing ceremonies and connection to Country, Elders and family play a vital role in this process.
Cultural sensitivity towards these practices is crucial for fostering trust and engagement. When individuals feel understood and respected within a recovery setting, they are more likely to open up, actively participate, and build the motivation necessary for long-term change.
Today, substance help recovery programs must bridge this gap by ensuring cultural competency and that programs are developed by and delivered for mob.
It's vital to acknowledge the unique experiences and perspectives of First Nations peoples, including the impacts of intergenerational trauma and colonisation, which can contribute to substance use challenges.
Shared Experiences, Stronger Support
Peer support groups are a cornerstone of the SMART Recovery approach. These groups provide a safe space for individuals to connect with like-minded people and are led by facilitators who share similar experiences and understand the challenges of the recovery process.
In the context of First Nations communities, culturally sensitive peer support offers a powerful advantage. Sharing experiences with those who understand the cultural context can be incredibly validating and ensures belonging.
Once belonging is established, trust can be built and individuals can share knowledge, tools and resources with one another.
Creating a Safe Space for Community Healing
SMART Recovery Australia's Yarn SMART program specifically addresses this need. Developed in collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander community members, Yarn SMART offers a culturally sensitive framework to support First Nations people seeking substance help.The Program is grounded in the 4C’s of Culture, Community, Connection and Country with free tools downloadable from the SMART Recovery Website. The Yarn SMART Toolkit is based on Worimi woman Dr Liz Dale’s post doctoral studies on the cultural competency of SMART.
https://smartrecoveryaustralia.com.au/yarn-smart-toolkit
The program incorporates traditional healing practices and protocols and is an inclusive and welcoming place for recovery. Importantly, local Aboriginal community-controlled organisations are trained in the Yarn SMART program to deliver the program in their community.
Within Yarn SMART groups, participants can:
- Yarn about their challenges and successes with fellow participants who understand their cultural background and have firsthand experience living with addiction.
- Learn from the lived experiences of others who are also navigating recovery.
- Develop coping mechanisms and strategies that are culturally relevant.
- Feel empowered to heal and reclaim their full potential.
If you’re interested in attending a Yarn SMART meeting for yourself or a loved one, please find our upcoming meetings here.
SMART Recovery Australia is committed to ongoing collaboration with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander communities to ensure Yarn SMART continues to evolve and meet the specific needs of those seeking culturally informed substance help.
To be trained in delivering Yarn SMART in your community, you can book upcoming trainings here https://smartrecoveryaustralia.com.au/upcoming-events.
