Annamila First Nations Foundation
Culture is Life deepens connections and belonging by backing Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander led solutions to prevent youth suicide and to support young people to thrive.
BASIS OF OUR WORK
The incidence of suicide among Aboriginal young people aged 15 to 24 is four times higher than
that of non- Aboriginal youn
g people. The prevalence of intentional self-harm among Aboriginal
young people is more than two times higher than for non-Aboriginal young people. The
interconnected issues of cultural dislocation, personal trauma and the ongoing stresses of
disadvantage, racism, alienation and exclusion have contributed to heightened risk of mental
health problems, substance misuse and suicide among Aboriginal people.
Culture is Life recognises the complexity of the issue and the interplay of social, cultural and
systemic determinants of health that heighten the risk of suicide. Drawing on growing evidence
that cultural strength influences the health and well-being of First Nations peoples globally as a
protective factor, Culture is Life backs Aboriginal-led solutions that deepen connection to culture
and country for Aboriginal young people.