Overview

Substance use and other mental health disorders are two of the leading contributors to health disparities among First Nations people in Australia. While there is a lack of robust data on prevalence, current research illustrates the disproportionate rates of mental health conditions for First Nations people when compared to the general Australian population.

This brief provides an overview of research regarding the prevalence and impacts of co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders among First Nations people in Australia. It examines current data, contributing factors, and highlights the need for culturally safe, integrated, and strengths-based approaches to care.