Promoting positive healing: Strengths and successes in mental health interventions for First Nations peoples

Purpose This systematic review sought to highlight positive aspects, strengths and successful outcomes of mental health interventions and psychological therapies for First Nations peoples, by identifying and evaluating culturally tailored, strengths-based approaches that foster conducive healing experiences. By assessing and synthesising existing studies that report positive healing outcomes for First Nations peoples in Australia, this review informs clear proposals and suggested adaptations to policy, planning and service provision within the current mental healthcare system. The central question was: What is the effectiveness of culturally tailored, strengths-based mental health interventions for promoting positive healing experiences among First Nations peoples of Australia? Methods Following Joanna Briggs Institute methodology for systematic reviews of effectiveness, a comprehensive analysis was undertaken of both quantitative and qualitative studies. Due to qualitative diversity and limited comparability, a meta-analysis was unfeasible, and a narrative synthesis was used to capture key findings. Main findings Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria, with most demonstrating favourable outcomes; two studies reported inconclusive or mixed findings for some evaluation measures. The quantitative findings demonstrate that integrating cultural elements into psychological interventions leads to meaningful outcomes across a range of mental health measures. Four core themes were identified following an analysis of both quantitative and qualitative findings: Connection to Country, Cultural practices and safe spaces, Creative expression and holistic approaches, and Therapeutic interventions and program acceptability. These results underscore the importance of culturally inclusive environments that facilitate healing and wellbeing, whilst also highlighting the crucial role of Indigenous-led programs and services in fostering healing among First Nations peoples in Australia. Principal conclusions Incorporating traditional cultural practices and creative expression strategies into mental healthcare delivery is integral to promoting positive, holistic wellbeing. By ensuring culturally safe spaces, individuals, families and communities are better supported in processing past experiences, fostering reparation and healing. Although there are few studies, this creates future opportunities for Indigenous-led programs that focus on conducive healing for First Nations peoples. This study highlights the need for further research that includes published evaluations of culturally tailored psychological interventions.